ICC appreciates Mohammed Siraj for special comeback in series

The cricketing world witnessed a remarkable turnaround within a span of just one month, as Mohammed Siraj emerged as the hero in India’s historic fightback against England in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. Siraj’s exceptional nine-wicket haul in the fifth and final Test at The Oval was instrumental in helping India level the series 2-2.

Just weeks earlier, Siraj had found himself under the spotlight for different reasons, during the final day of the third Test at Lord’s, where India fell agonisingly short by 22 runs while chasing 193. Siraj had joined Ravindra Jadeja for the final wicket and showed great resilience, sharing a 23-run stand off just 80 deliveries.

However, disaster struck in the 75th over when Shoaib Bashir, bowling with a broken finger, delivered a sharply dipping ball. The backspin caused the ball to trickle under Siraj’s bat, grip the rough, and roll back onto the stumps, ending India’s hopes and leaving Siraj visibly heartbroken. The International Cricket Council (ICC) summed up Siraj’s moments of comeback with a special post on social media.

Check ICC’s post for Siraj here

Another moment of misfortune came during the fourth day of the final Test at The Oval. He was stationed at fine leg, and misjudged a high lofted shot from Harry Brook, and in his effort to prevent a six, accidentally stepped on the boundary cushion. The error cost India six crucial runs and added to the pressure of the match situation. ICC took to social media once again, and depicted the event as a ‘From misery to joy’ saga.

Check the post here

However, in a powerful display of determination, the Hyderabad-born cricketer turned it all around. His match-winning spell in the final Test not only erased the pain and setbacks, but also firmly placed him at the heart of India’s fightback. With nine wickets in the match, he was rightfully named Player of the Match, helping India draw the series and script a memorable comeback.

Siraj’s overseas Test record continues to impress. In nine Test wins for India in SENA (South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia) countries, he has taken 51 wickets at an outstanding average of 18.92, including four five-wicket hauls.

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