Mohammed Siraj‘s outstanding spell on Day 3 of the second Test match between India and England at Edgbaston gave India the upper hand. India had a 244-run lead at stumps thanks to his 6/70 statistics, which also helped bowl England out for 407. After the play that day, Siraj talked candidly about his feelings and joy of responsibility without Jasprit Bumrah.
In recent away Test matches, India’s bowling squad has come under fire, especially since Bumrah was rested to manage fatigue. Siraj was tasked with spearheading the assault in his absence. The host team got back on track with a solid 303-run partnership between Jamie Smith and Harry Brook of England.
However, Siraj’s spell made sure India kept a firm grip on the game, especially with the second new ball.
He took six wickets, including England captain Ben Stokes for a duck, and four of them came from the last five of England’s innings. He acknowledged that he performs best under duress.
“This sensation is unreal. I had been anticipating this moment for more than a year. I consistently bowled well, but I never got any wickets. These six wickets are particularly noteworthy because, despite a positive morning session, there was still no breakthrough today. Despite the slow pitch, I understood my duty. Although I haven’t participated in many games lately, I understood from experience not to put in too much effort. Simply continue bowling in the appropriate spots.
That alters the atmosphere and increases pressure. My goal was to provide stability because I’ve played 38 Test matches. I simply wanted to be reliable with 600 runs on the board, not go out and take wickets. I enjoy challenges and taking on responsibilities. I’ve faced a lot of obstacles in my life, and I believe that I work best when I’m under pressure,” Siraj stated on JioHotstar’s “Match Centre Live.”
On Day 4, India hopes to increase its lead past 400.
Siraj led the attack admirably, even though he bowled the fewest overs of any pacer (aside from the useless Prasidh Krishna). He was predicted to hit the stumps 28 times, more than any other bowler, and he took wickets on three of those deliveries, according to the analytics. Siraj has an outstanding record sans Bumrah. Siraj has taken 39 wickets at 25.20 in 15 Test matches without India’s best bowler. With Karun Nair and KL Rahul still at the crease following Yashasvi Jaiswal’s dismissal for 28, India finished the day at 64/1. On the fourth day, the visitors, who are already ahead by 244 runs, will aim to surpass 400.