Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar heaped praise on Mohammed Siraj for stepping up in Jasprit Bumrah’s absence during the Edgbaston Test, where the pacer grabbed a sensational six-wicket haul to help India gain the upper hand against England.
“His Persistence Has Been Rewarded” – Tendulkar
As questions were raised about India resting their premier fast bowler Bumrah, Siraj responded in style, leading the pace attack and dismissing six England batters in the first innings.
Tendulkar took to X (formerly Twitter) to highlight what impressed him most:
“The biggest change I’ve noticed in Siraj has been his accuracy and consistency in landing the ball in the right areas. His persistence has been rewarded with 6 wickets. Very ably supported by Akash Deep as well. Well done!”
Siraj’s performance came after a subdued outing in the Leeds Test, and his turnaround at Edgbaston has silenced critics while showcasing his growth and temperament under pressure.
Tight Spell After England’s 303-Run Stand
Even as Harry Brook (158) and Jamie Smith (184)* mounted a massive 303-run partnership, Siraj held his nerve. With the second new ball, he ran through the English tail — removing Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue, and Shoaib Bashir — to finish with figures of 6/100, swinging the momentum back in India’s favour.
Tendulkar Acknowledges England’s Fightback
The Master Blaster also praised England’s fightback, especially the counterattack from Brook and Smith:
“Special partnership between Brook and Smith who were under pressure and counterattacked beautifully to bring England much closer to India’s total than one would’ve expected.”
India Firmly in Control After Day 3
At stumps on Day 3, India stood at 64/1 in their second innings, with a 244-run lead. KL Rahul (28)* and Karun Nair (7)* were unbeaten at the crease, positioning India strongly to push for a series-levelling win with two days of play remaining.
With the pitch slowing down and Siraj brimming with confidence, India will look to build a daunting target and put the pressure right back on the hosts.
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