In the current Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, Mohammed Siraj has excelled not only in his bowling abilities but also in his dedication to the trophy. The only pacer from India to have participated in all five Test matches is him. Additionally, the 31-year-old participated in all five Test matches in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in 2024–2025.
Siraj may be a guy of few words, but he is a born leader who motivates the squad, especially when things are not going their way, according to bowling coach Morne Morkel of India. Morkel was also happy to see Siraj’s efforts being acknowledged.
“Siraj has performed admirably. He is an innate leader who inspires the group via his deeds rather than words. I’m very happy that he’s receiving this recognition. After the fourth day of play in the last Test at The Oval, Morkel remarked, “He gives the team that spark, whether it’s an extra spell or lifting the crowd when things go flat.”
In order to limit his workload, Jasprit Bumrah only played three games during the series. However, Morkel disclosed that Siraj assured the team management that he would not miss the fifth and final Test.
His words were, ‘I want to play this match, I want to win it for the team.'” “Tests are won with that kind of attitude,” Morkel said.
I’m overjoyed that he’s receiving recognition: On Siraj, Morne Morkel
According to former South Africa speedster Morkel, Siraj’s incredible dedication gives his teammates even more inspiration.
“I’m overjoyed that he’s receiving recognition. “He plays for the badge, and the rest of the team is motivated by that kind of dedication,” Morkel stated.
Siraj has taken 20 wickets at an average of 36.85 in five games, making him the top wicket-taker in the 2025 Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. But with just 35 runs left in the Oval Test, India needs four wickets to win, so he needs to put in one last effort on the last day of the series.
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