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"Only Aim Was...": Siraj Opens Up On Leading India's Pace Attack In Bumrah's Absence

Sakshi Sharma

Mohammed Siraj after stellar performance (Source: AP)Mohammed Siraj after stellar performance (Source: AP)

Mohammed Siraj delivered a performance to remember on Day 3 of the second Test at Edgbaston. With England threatening to stage a memorable comeback through a record-breaking 303-run partnership between Harry Brook and Jamie Smith, Siraj rose to the occasion, producing a six-wicket haul to hand India a critical 180-run first-innings lead.

The pendulum had briefly swung in England’s favour, thanks to the resilience and brilliance of Brook and Smith. The duo stitched together a massive sixth-wicket stand that not only revived England’s innings but also placed serious pressure on the Indian bowlers, who were beginning to run out of ideas.

However, the introduction of the second new ball late in the day proved decisive. Siraj, with able support from Akash Deep, ran through the tail in clinical fashion. The ace pacer finished with figures of 6 wickets, including scalps of Joe Root, Ben Stokes, and three of England’s lower-order batters in the final session.

Siraj Reflects On Leadership Role

Speaking to JioHotstar after stumps, Mohammed Siraj reflected on the responsibility of leading a relatively inexperienced Indian pace unit. 

“I love the responsibility. I love a challenge. Because I have seen a lot of challenges in life. And I have come from there,” he said. “So, I like challenges. And when responsibility comes to me, then I take that thing very well.”

The 30-year-old Hyderabad pacer, who has now played 38 Tests, was full of praise for his young teammates and highlighted the importance of holding a consistent line and length under pressure. 

“Akash Deep is playing just his 3rd or 4th Test match. The same is the case with Prasidh Krishna. I have played 38 Tests. My only aim was to deliver and bowl consistent line and lengths. I had almost 600 runs on my board. So, I also wanted to try this. But my only aim was to hold the ball as much as I could. If the pressure builds, it would have been great for us,” said Siraj on JioStar at stumps on Day 3.

India In Command – What To Expect On Day 4?

With a first-innings lead of 180 runs, India are in a strong position heading into Day 4. The key for the visitors now will be to bat with patience and discipline, avoid a middle-order collapse, and set a target that would put the game out of England’s reach.

Given the Edgbaston pitch has offered consistent bounce and some seam movement, especially with the new ball, the first session on Day 4 will be crucial. England, on their part, will aim to strike early and restrict India’s scoring opportunities, keeping the door open for a final-innings chase.