Mohammed Siraj Credits Jasprit Bumrah’s Advice for Comeback
Team India began the Border-Gavaskar Trophy with a bang. They won the Perth Test by 295 runs. Mohammed Siraj’s five-wicket haul was the match’s highlight. It marked his return to form after a poor series against New Zealand. After the game, Siraj credited captain Jasprit Bumrah for his advice. It helped him regain confidence and focus on his bowling.
Siraj’s Struggles and Turnaround
Mohammed Siraj struggled in the Test series against New Zealand. He took only two wickets in the three matches. However, the scenario dramatically changed in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy opener. Siraj took five vital wickets in the first Test. This showed his better control and precision. His bowling performance played a pivotal role in Team India’s massive win.
Reflecting on his turnaround, Siraj shared:
“I am happy with the way I bowled here and at Perth. Over the last few months, I felt I wasn’t getting enough wickets and, in that desperation, a bit of my line and length was affected. I thought deeply about this and I understood that when I enjoy my bowling, then the wickets usually follow. I am in that stage again now.” – Siraj said.
Jasprit Bumrah’s Advice to Siraj
Jasprit Bumrah excelled in the Perth Test, taking eight wickets (5/42 and 3/28). He gave Siraj vital advice before the game. Siraj said Bumrah urged him to be consistent, not to chase wickets.
“Jassy-bhai (Bumrah) told me to focus on being consistent instead of worrying about wickets. I also had a chat with Bharat Arun (India’s former bowling coach) and he too said the same thing, to focus on my skills instead of worrying about wickets.” – Siraj said.
This approach helped Siraj find his rhythm and effectiveness. He then contributed to India’s dominance.
Challenges of Bowling in Australia
Bowling in Australian conditions has always posed unique challenges for visiting teams. The extra bounce on Australian pitches can tempt bowlers. But, Siraj stressed the need for discipline.
“Because the bounce is so good, at times you may feel like striking the helmet of a batter. The point is not to be excited and just bow to your plans.” Siraj said.
Siraj’s ability to adapt was key to India’s success in the opening Test.
The Pink Ball Challenge at Adelaide
The focus now shifts to the second Test in Adelaide. India and Australia will face off in a day-night pink ball match. Siraj acknowledged the unique challenges posed by the pink ball, especially under lights.
“As for the pink ball, you feel a bit synthetic while holding it but other than that there is not much of a difference. They say it moves around under lights but we bowled first here, maybe we will get that feel at Adelaide during the second Test.” Siraj added.
The upcoming match promises to test both teams as they adapt to the pink ball’s behavior and the conditions at the Adelaide Oval.
Mohammed Siraj’s resurgence, following Jasprit Bumrah’s advice, has bolstered India’s bowling. They aim to dominate the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. With a crucial pink ball Test ahead, Team India needs Siraj’s new skills and confidence. The series is high-stakes.
Key Stats:
- Siraj in New Zealand series: 2 wickets in 3 matches
- Siraj in Perth Test: 5 wickets
- Bumrah in Perth Test: 8 wickets (5 in first innings, 3 in second)
