Mohammed Siraj’s rollercoaster journey in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy reached its peak with India’s thrilling six-run win over England at The Oval. The 31-year-old fast bowler, who took five wickets in the second innings, played a key role in helping India level the five-match Test series 2-2.
But for Siraj, the joy of the win was mixed with regret. On Day 4, he dropped Harry Brook’s catch at the boundary, which haunted him throughout the night. The catch, if taken cleanly, could have turned the match much earlier. Brook went on to score 111, pushing England closer to a series win.
Siraj spoke about this emotional moment in a video posted by the BCCI. “When I went to sleep after Day 4, I couldn’t stop thinking about that dropped catch. I just kept asking myself, ‘How could I do this?’” he said. “But maybe it was God’s plan. The next day, I knew I could still make it happen.”
Siraj Leads Pace Attack in Bumrah’s Absence
With Jasprit Bumrah missing from the final two Tests, Siraj led the Indian pace attack with determination and heart. He bowled 187 overs across the series, more than any other bowler, and finished as the highest wicket-taker with 23 wickets.
Siraj’s performance earned him the Player of the Match award in the final Test. Reflecting on his journey, he added, “I always had belief in myself. I had a wallpaper on my phone that says ‘believe’. This comeback was crazy.”
He also gave a heartfelt shoutout to Bumrah, saying, “I missed Jassi Bhai. He has a different presence. But now, I believe in Jassi Bhai and myself.”
Mohammed Siraj’s story from heartbreak at Lord’s to heroism at The Oval is a perfect example of why cricket is called a game of emotions and comebacks.
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