Mohammed Siraj didn’t have a great time in the first Test against England at Headingley, Leeds. The pitch wasn’t helping bowlers much, and Siraj struggled to take wickets while also giving up runs at an economy rate of 4.05. He bowled 27 overs in the first innings, taking two wickets but conceding 122 runs. In the second innings, he bowled 14 overs and allowed 51 runs without taking a wicket.
Former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin pointed out that Siraj needs to focus on his role. In a video on his YouTube channel, he asked, Can you stop the runs? You don’t always need to take wickets, but can you keep it to 4-5 runs an over? If runs are flowing, you have to bring Bumrah back. How many times can Bumrah save the day?
Bumrah was the standout bowler for India in the first innings, taking five wickets, while Krishna managed three wickets but gave away runs at a higher rate. Ashwin noted that Krishna gets tired, which allows partnerships to form. He mentioned that Siraj needs to step up and be more reliable. He compared his role to Morne Morkel, who would bowl well within tight limits.
Ashwin acknowledged that taking wickets is crucial in Test cricket, but he emphasized the importance of working with your teammates. He said Ishant Sharma did this well by maintaining pressure and keeping runs low. Ashwin isn’t asking Siraj to be perfect, but he believes that controlling run flow is key for him to make a difference.