Did Siraj's Performance Make Him the Star of the Series?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Mohammed Siraj excelled with a 5-104 performance in the final Test.
- Harry Brook acknowledged Siraj's phenomenal series, showing mutual respect.
- The series concluded with a thrilling six-run win for India, drawing the series 2-2.
- Both teams exhibited intense competition, making the series a great advertisement for Test cricket.
- Reflecting on the series, players expressed their exhaustion but excitement for the sport.
London, Aug 4 (NationPress) Following his recognition as England's Player of the Series, right-handed batter Harry Brook expressed his admiration for India pacer Mohammed Siraj, who had an outstanding series, highlighting the respect he holds for the fast-bowler's achievements over the past six weeks.
During the fifth day's play, Siraj transitioned from dropping a catch off Brook at a score of 19 to sensationally dismissing Gus Atkinson by toppling his off-stump, finishing with an impressive 5-104. His effort contributed to India clinching a remarkable six-run victory in the fifth Test, thereby leveling the series at 2-2 in the inaugural edition of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.
Siraj also emerged as the leading wicket-taker of the series, claiming 23 scalps. "We entered the day filled with confidence. We had two excellent players at the crease, and I believed we were on track to secure the win," Brook stated.
"However, the way the Indian team fought back and Siraj's bowling was deserving of every accolade. Siraj has played five consecutive Test matches, consistently bowling at 85mph. He has had a remarkable series, and I hold a great deal of respect for his performances. He was always likely to claim our wickets, so he deserves immense credit," Brook remarked during the post-match presentation.
He further noted that the five-match gripping series served as a great promotion for Test cricket. "There are numerous considerations in hindsight. We were performing very well, but a couple of significant overs led to my dismissal and ultimately sealed our fate. Hindsight is a beautiful thing; reflecting on it, I probably shouldn't have attempted that shot."
“Throughout this series, we've witnessed multiple collapses where six wickets fell for just 50 runs or the reverse, thus the conclusion was fitting. This has been an extraordinary and intense series. We have all felt utterly exhausted after each match.”
“We gave it our all, leaving nothing behind. Being part of this series has been fantastic, even with that finish. I know we ended up on the losing side, but it serves as a brilliant advertisement for Test cricket, and I hope people continue to tune in,” Brook concluded.