Mohammed Siraj, a fast bowler for Team India, feels England’s ultra-aggressive attitude would not work in subcontinent conditions. The visitors’ Bazball style of play has been mainly effective, but it is about to face its toughest test yet, courtesy of rank turners and powerful Indian spinners.
In the lead-up to the series, England made it clear. They won’t change their tactics due to the conditions. They plan to challenge Indian bowlers, whatever the pitch brings.
Mohammed Siraj, bowling just 24 overs total in Team India’s previous home series against Australia in 2023, is ready to perform at his home ground in Hyderabad. The fast bowler thinks the match will end swiftly if England keeps playing aggressive cricket.
“If they try to play Bazball in Indian conditions then I think the match is likely to end inside two days. It is not easy here to hit every ball. The ball turns sometimes, sometimes it stays straight. If they play Bazball here then it is good for us because the match will end quickly.”
Mohammed Siraj
India and England start their first Test on January 25. The game is set to happen at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad.
Mohammed Siraj’s sensational spell of 6-15 helps India level series in South Africa
The right-arm pacer caused havoc in South Africa lately, beginning the year with a magnificent performance of 6-15. His efforts resulted in the Proteas being bowled out for 55 in the first innings, allowing India to draw the series with a seven-wicket triumph at Newlands, Cape Town.
He is set to join Jasprit Bumrah in the starting XI to round out the speed department, while Mohammed Shami is sidelined due to injury. In addition to Shami, the hosts will be without Virat Kohli, who is absent for the first two Tests owing to personal reasons.
Harry Brook has also withdrawn from the tour, citing personal reasons, with England replacing him with Dan Lawrence.