India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel revealed that ahead of the final Test at The Oval, the team management checked in with Mohammed Siraj to assess his physical and mental readiness. According to Morkel, the pace spearhead dismissed any concerns about fatigue and expressed a strong desire to play the final match and help secure a win for India.
Siraj has been a tireless performer throughout the five-Test series in England, featuring in every match and delivering 181.2 overs (1,088 balls) so far. He currently leads the wicket charts with 20 dismissals at an average of 36.85. With the series finale set for Monday, August 4, Siraj gears up for one final push as India need 4 wickets and England just 35 runs.
Speaking at the end of Day 4, Morkel praised the pacer’s efforts and commended his unwavering commitment and positive mindset.
“The guy is always putting his hands up, saying I want to do it for the team. Even before the start of the Test, there were conversations with him to just check how he was feeling mentally and how he is feeling physically because of the amount of overs. But, he was the first guy to say – listen, I want to play this Test match. I want to win it for the team,” the Indian bowling coach revealed.
“I don’t think about breaking down. I love playing for the country. I want to give my everything for India.”
This statement by Mohammed Siraj has won millions of hearts 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/un8hEElQK1
— Madhav Sharma (@HashTagCricket) August 2, 2025
Morkel Highlights Siraj’s Growth As India’s Lead Pacer Without Bumrah
Morne Morkel also addressed the ongoing discussion about Mohammed Siraj elevating his game in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah. The 40-year-old observed that Siraj embraces the challenge of leading the pace attack and takes pride in shouldering that responsibility. He went on to say:
“For him, it is recognizing the moment that he is the leader of the attack when Jasprit is not playing. I am not saying that he is shying away from it when Booms is there. But, you need to set the tone as the new ball bowler. The guy has played 30-40 Tests, so he just enjoys the opportunity when it’s given to him.”
Siraj has delivered 26 overs in England’s second innings at The Oval, picking up 2 wickets for 95 runs. Earlier, in the first innings, he recorded figures of 4 for 86 from 16.2 overs.
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