Jasprit Bumrah, India’s pace spearhead, has voiced strong support for Mohammed Siraj despite the latter’s inconsistent form during the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. Siraj, who was instrumental in India’s historic 2020-21 series win, has struggled to replicate that success, particularly in the Perth, Adelaide, and Brisbane Tests.
His challenges in finding the right length to exploit pitch conditions have increased the burden on Bumrah to take wickets. Additionally, Siraj faced a hamstring scare during the Gabba Test, temporarily forcing him off the field. However, displaying resilience, he returned to bowl 23.2 overs and claimed two key wickets.
Bumrah praised Siraj’s grit and commitment, stating, “He had a little bit of a niggle, but he still kept bowling and helped the team. He knew if he didn’t bowl, the team would be under pressure. He has a great attitude and a fighter’s spirit that the team loves.” Despite physical challenges, Siraj’s determination remains a valuable asset to the team, a quality Bumrah admired.
Fighting Spirit and Team Dynamics
Bumrah emphasized Siraj’s fighting spirit, particularly during the Adelaide Test, where his heated exchange with Travis Head caught fans’ attention. “He is always up for a fight and gives it his all for the team. Even when he wasn’t 100 per cent, he kept fighting. That’s a great attitude,” Bumrah remarked, highlighting the mental toughness Siraj brings to the field.
Bumrah also explained that cricket is unpredictable, and performance cannot be judged solely by wickets. “Some days, you will bowl well, and wickets might not come. Some days, you won’t bowl very well, but wickets will follow. It’s all money in the bank,” he said, urging a broader perspective on a player’s contribution.
He further acknowledged the team’s ongoing transition, with youngsters like Akash Deep, Harshit Rana, and Prasidh Krishna finding their place in the Test circuit. “We don’t, as a team, point fingers. We are going through a transition where new players are coming in,” Bumrah added, underscoring the importance of unity during this phase.
Workload and Rain-Interrupted Test
The workload on Bumrah has been immense in the absence of Mohammed Shami, with him bowling 82 overs in the series—more than any other bowler—while Siraj has bowled 76.1 overs. Limited support from the spin department has added to the pressure, though all-rounder Nitish Reddy has chipped ineffectively.
India’s struggles continued in Brisbane, where the visitors were reduced to 4/51 on Day 3. Fortunately, rain offered respite, and with more showers forecasted for Days 4 and 5, India has a chance to salvage a draw in the third Test of the five-match series.
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