Mohammed Siraj delivered a match-defining performance on the final day of the fifth Test at The Oval, playing a crucial role in bowling England out for 367 while chasing 374. His efforts helped India secure a 2-2 draw in the recently concluded Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series. Siraj emerged as the leading wicket-taker of the five-match series, claiming 23 wickets.
The 31-year-old pacer returned to India on Wednesday, landing at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport after his stellar showing in England. Dressed smartly in black casuals, Siraj received a warm welcome from a small group of fans who greeted him with cheers and selfie requests. Though he acknowledged the reception, Mohammed Siraj quickly made his way into a waiting car, likely heading to the domestic terminal for his connecting flight to Hyderabad, his hometown.
Hyderabad Cricket Association Plans Felicitation for Siraj After Historic Test Heroics
The Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) is gearing up to felicitate Mohammed Siraj following his remarkable performance in the Test series against England. “We have not spoken to him yet. But we will certainly plan something (felicitation) for him, as he could be in the city for a while now. It’s a matter of pride for all of us that he did so well for the country in the series against England,” an HCA official told PTI.
Siraj’s defining moment came on the fifth day of the final Test at The Oval, where he played a pivotal role in India’s thrilling six-run victory—the narrowest in their Test history. With England chasing 374, Mohammed Siraj dismantled their batting lineup by claiming five wickets in the second innings, finishing the match with an impressive haul of nine wickets.
This spirited performance ensured a 2-2 series draw for India, a commendable result given the absence of key pacer Jasprit Bumrah, who was rested as part of the workload management plan.
India captain Shubman Gill lauded Mohammed Siraj fierce commitment, saying, “He is a captain’s dream. Every ball, every spell he bowled, he came all out and gave it everything for the team.”
Reflecting on his own mindset during the tense final day, Mohammed Siraj said, “I always believe that I can win the game from any point, and this morning was no different,” referring to India’s task of taking the final four wickets while defending just 35 runs.
Mohammed Siraj grit and determination have not only earned India a historic Test win but also immense pride for his hometown of Hyderabad.