Pace drop, no rhythm! What is going wrong for Mohammed Siraj?
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Mohammed Siraj was hit for three boundaries in a single over during the Duleep Trophy final by Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.
Mohammed Siraj has established himself as one of India’s most important fast bowlers in the current Indian setup. His importance is particularly highlighted in the Test and ODI formats. Siraj rose to fame after he proved his worth in international cricket with his ability to generate movement and maintain pressure through long spells.
Ever since Mohammed Siraj has been a regular part of the Indian team, he has been trusted with the new ball. Siraj’s intensity on the field has made him a particularly popular character among India’s pace bowling options. Currently, Siraj has been of extraordinary use to India in this WTC cycle, as he emerged as their leading wicket-taker after Jasprit Bumrah missed many matches due to injury concerns.
Currently being the spearhead of the Indian pace attack, a lot of India’s success depends on the Gujarat Titans pacer. However, some questions have recently been raised over his rhythm and effectiveness, especially with the red ball.
Is Mohammed Siraj’s workload affecting his effectiveness for India?
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Mohammed Siraj has shown a genuine ability to produce the same pace and penetration throughout every spell he bowled during a match. This went on to become one of the character traits of the Indian speedster. But a major issue has been noted after his break following the one-off Test series against Afghanistan.
Ever since his return from that series against Afghanistan, Mohammed Siraj has marked a significant dip in his pace. This is a massive concern for the Indian management, as they are scheduled to tour New Zealand for their next Test series. With concerns over Jasprit Bumrah’s workload, if Siraj also suffers from pace reduction, then it could be a big blow for India’s WTC hopes.
The Indian management considered dropping Siraj from the England ODIs to give him enough time to manage his workload. However, it seems that it has not worked for the pacer. The Indian management further directed him to play the Duleep Trophy final to get back his rhythm, but the Indian pacer has struggled with his pace and has been thrashed by the opposition batters.
The timing of these concerns is significant, as India’s plans for overseas Tests will be shattered if Siraj suffers an injury or struggles with low pace. The immediate challenge for the speedster is to rediscover his pace and rhythm before the upcoming ODIs and the New Zealand Test series.
How did Mohammed Siraj perform in the Duleep Trophy final?
Mohammed Siraj struggled since his opening spell on Day 1 of the ongoing Duleep Trophy 2026 Final between East Zone and South Zone at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. He finished with no wickets by the end of Day 1 and was thrashed for runs at an economy of 6.86.
Will Mohammed Siraj play in the Afghanistan T20Is for India?
No, Mohammed Siraj is not part of India’s squad for the three-match T20I series against Afghanistan.
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