Former India wicketkeeper Parthiv Patel believes fast bowler Mohammed Siraj is often undervalued despite his consistent efforts and crucial role in the ongoing Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.
Mohammed Siraj: The Unsung Hero?
Mohammed Siraj has been a constant presence for India in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, featuring in every Test of the series so far. His dedication and performance have impressed many, including former India wicketkeeper Parthiv Patel.
Patel recently highlighted Siraj’s contributions, suggesting that the cricketing world often overlooks the pacer’s hard work. “We tend to take Mohammed Siraj for granted,” Patel stated, praising Siraj’s consistent effort, intensity, and positive attitude, regardless of the match situation.
Siraj’s Series Performance and Leadership Role
Siraj has taken 14 wickets across seven innings in the current series, proving his mettle against a strong English side. With a career tally of 114 wickets in 40 Test matches, he has become a reliable asset for the Indian team.
Looking ahead to the crucial fifth Test at The Oval, Siraj is expected to shoulder a significant responsibility. If ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah is rested, as recommended by the BCCI medical team, Siraj will likely lead the Indian bowling attack, a testament to his growing stature.
The Jasprit Bumrah Conundrum
Jasprit Bumrah’s workload has been a carefully managed aspect throughout the series. It was initially planned for him to play only three Tests, and the BCCI’s medical team has now advised against his inclusion in the final match.
While acknowledging the need for workload management and recovery, Parthiv Patel expressed his personal desire to see Bumrah play the last Test. He hopes the support staff can help Bumrah recover sufficiently to participate.
A Call for Kuldeep Yadav
India managed to secure a draw in the fourth Test, thanks to solid performances from all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar, alongside strong batting displays from Shubman Gill and KL Rahul. However, spinner Kuldeep Yadav has remained on the sidelines for the entire series.
Patel believes that if Bumrah is unavailable for the final Test, India should consider bringing in Kuldeep Yadav. He sees Kuldeep as an “attacking bowler” who can provide the wicket-taking threat needed in such a crucial game.
According to Patel, India should approach team selection with confidence, mirroring their assertive batting. He emphasized that Kuldeep offers a valuable “attacking edge” and should be included in the playing XI.
- Mohammed Siraj is often “taken for granted” despite his consistent efforts, according to Parthiv Patel.
- Siraj is expected to lead India’s pace attack in the final Test if Jasprit Bumrah is rested.
- Bumrah’s workload is being managed, and he might sit out the fifth Test as per BCCI’s medical advice.
- Parthiv Patel advocates for Kuldeep Yadav’s inclusion if Bumrah is unavailable, seeing him as a crucial attacking option.
The final Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy promises to be an exciting encounter, with key selection decisions potentially shaping the outcome for both teams.
