How Does Siraj’s Aggressiveness Elevate His Game?

London, July 13 (NationPress) Following a dramatic conclusion to the previous day's play, the Indian fast bowlers took to the field on Day 4, delivering a fiery performance against the English batsmen. Mohammed Siraj shone brightly, claiming two crucial wickets during the ongoing third Test at Lord's.

According to former India spinner and captain Anil Kumble, Siraj complemented Jasprit Bumrah exceptionally well, and the Indian team will be pleased with their opening session.

“Test cricket demands an understanding of when to raise the intensity. With both teams having equal scores on Day 4, making a strong start was essential for India. The bowlers performed brilliantly, securing four wickets in that session. The pitch had become tricky, with uneven bounce affecting Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett. They approached their innings with positivity, but on such a surface, occasional success is possible, not consistent,” Kumble commented.

“Siraj's bowling was outstanding, effectively supporting Bumrah's initial spell. The review that led to Ollie Pope's dismissal was successful due to Siraj's height, as Crawley had previously evaded a similar fate. Crawley’s wicket was a bonus; it resulted from a poor shot while attempting to drive on the rise. India will certainly be pleased with that performance,” Kumble added on JioHotstar.

The first session of Day 4 was vibrant, as India's pace attack consistently targeted the right areas, generating additional bounce and deviation that made things challenging for England's batsmen. This perseverance proved fruitful, as Mohammed Siraj recorded figures of 2-11, while Nitish Kumar Reddy and Akash Deep each took a wicket, with Jasprit Bumrah also delivering a mesmerizing performance that thrilled the crowd.

Kumble remarked on how Siraj’s aggressive style of play enhances his effectiveness.

“What sets Siraj apart is his relentless effort with every delivery. On a pitch like this, it's crucial to hit the deck hard and accurately—and he has consistently done so. In the last Test, he rose to the occasion without Bumrah, achieving a five-wicket haul, while Akash Deep contributed with a ten-wicket match haul. This time, Siraj recognized the need to support Bumrah, and he delivered. Even yesterday, during one of Bumrah's overs, it was Siraj who displayed the most intensity. His character is such that he always challenges the batsman, which seems to elevate his performance. The only concern is ensuring that his passion doesn’t go too far and affect his bowling. However, he has been outstanding thus far, consistently finding the right areas,” Kumble concluded.