The intense cricket rivalry between India and Australia has always set the stage for memorable performances. The recently concluded fifth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy saw Australia clinch victory against India, securing the series 3-1. Despite a disappointing performance from Indian bowlers, particularly Mohammed Siraj, former cricketer Gautam Gambhir took the time to commend Siraj’s efforts. This article explores why Gambhir is so impressed with Siraj, even after the match results did not go in India’s favor, painting a broader picture of Siraj’s potential in international cricket.
Gautam Gambhir’s Praise for Mohammed Siraj
Following India’s loss in the Sydney Test, Gautam Gambhir held a press conference where he was asked about the positives of the match. He expressed his admiration for the newer players in the team, particularly highlighting Mohammed Siraj’s attitude. Gambhir stated, “Mohammed Siraj has been outstanding. I don’t think I have seen anyone running for every ball like he did, even when he wasn’t fully fit. His attitude was incredible.” This underscores how Gambhir recognizes Siraj’s commitment to the team’s success, even under challenging circumstances.
We wanted to keep fighting, and we fought till the end #TeamIndia Head Coach Gautam Gambhir reflects on the positives from the #AUSvIND series. @GautamGambhirpic.twitter.com/zo6yYLMsit
— BCCI (@BCCI) January 5, 2025
Siraj’s Bowling Performance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy
Throughout the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Mohammed Siraj emerged as a key player for India, ranking second overall in terms of overs bowled. He delivered a total of 157.1 overs, significantly contributing to India’s bowling attack. Remarkably, Siraj became the highest bowler for India during the series, trailing only Pat Cummins for the most overs bowled. Despite being under pressure, he claimed a total of 20 wickets during the series, reflecting his potential to become a leading fast bowler.
In achieving this milestone, Siraj also recorded a personal achievement—the 100 wickets mark in Test cricket. Prior to the Sydney Test, he had already taken 96 wickets, and with a stellar performance in the first innings where he took three wickets, he brought his total to 99. The feat was capped off by claiming Usman Khawaja’s wicket in the second innings, making him the 23rd Indian bowler to achieve this landmark in Test cricket.
Siraj’s journey in international Test cricket has been remarkable. Starting in 2020 against Australia, he reached the 100 wickets milestone in just 36 Test matches. Over his brief yet impactful career, he has recorded three five-wicket hauls, maintains an impressive bowling average of 30.8, and has an economy rate of 3.44. These statistics not only demonstrate his effectiveness as a bowler but also indicate his tremendous potential for future success on the cricket field.