India’s fast bowling battery has become a force to be reckoned with in recent years, but not all of the players in the lineup cemented their spot with their initial performances for the team. While some, like Jasprit Bumrah, quickly secured their positions, others had to work hard to establish themselves. One such bowler is Mohammed Siraj, who initially struggled after making his international debut in November 2017.
Mohammed Siraj’s first international match was a T20I against New Zealand in Rajkot, where he had a difficult time. Although he did manage to get the wicket of Kane Williamson, he was belted around the park by Colin Munro, who scored an unbeaten 109 in just 58 balls.
Mohammed Siraj ended up with figures of 1/53 in the match. Despite his success, Siraj still remembers his difficult debut and the prediction made by veteran India wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik. Karthik had warned Siraj that Munro would belt him around the park, but Siraj had dismissed the prediction, saying that he would get Munro out. Karthik has since joked with Siraj about the incident, and the two have developed a strong bond.
He has since worked hard to improve his game and has become a key player for India in both Tests and ODIs. He has climbed to the top of the ICC rankings for ODI bowlers and is a regular in India’s Test XI. He has played 17 Test matches, taking 47 wickets, 21 ODIs, 38 wickets, and eight T20Is, taking 11 scalps.
Overall, his journey to becoming an established player for India has not been easy, but his hard work and dedication have paid off. Mohammed Siraj is now regarded as one of India’s most promising fast bowlers and is expected to continue making significant contributions to the team.
