On the eve of a tense Day 4 in the final Test between India and England at The Oval, R Ashwin took a moment to spotlight the tireless efforts of Mohammed Siraj.
Speaking on his Ash ki Baat YouTube channel after the day's play, the former Indian spinner praised Siraj's development since India's last tour of England and shed light on how his contributions often go unnoticed when Jasprit Bumrah is around. Siraj has bowled over 180 overs in the series.
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He has been at the heart of India's bowling in Bumrah's absence. With the series on the line and England needing just 35 runs with four wickets in hand, Siraj's relentless work ethic has become central to India's hopes.
What did R Ashwin say about Mohammad Siraj?
Ashwin pointed out how Siraj's skillset has expanded since 2021. Once known mainly for his outswinger, Siraj now regularly uses the wobble-seam delivery that has brought him key breakthroughs - including Ollie Pope and Joe Root in this Test.
"When he first burst into the scene in the Gabba Test in 2020‑21, the outswinger was his most potent weapon. Siraj has managed to bring it back. He had lost it out for a while. With that in his arsenal now, he has become doubly effective," said Ashwin.
Does Siraj not get credit when Jasprit Bumrah is playing?
He also highlighted Siraj's intensity across long spells despite being the most used bowler in the series.
"In this series, he has bowled almost 200 overs and still running in hard. One mighty effort by Siraj. When Bumrah is playing, there are times when we forget Siraj completely. When Bumrah isn't playing, Siraj does get the credit he richly deserves," he added.
Siraj's transformation into a more complete bowler has not come easy. His wobble-seam deliveries, improved discipline in length and ability to swing both ways have made him a consistent threat.
Despite some missed opportunities and dropped catches, his control and fitness have been good - especially in a series where India have relied heavily on just three seamers.
Bowling coach Morne Morkel has praised Siraj's leadership by example. On the field, he has been vocal, energising the crowd, mentoring younger bowlers and chasing breakthroughs with intensity.
If India fall short on Day 5, Siraj's boundary misjudgment late on Day 4 may haunt him. But as Ashwin and others suggest, that one moment should not define a series where he has been India's heartbeat with the ball.