Mohammed Siraj Emerges as India's Pace Leader

Siraj beams with pride, posing with the match ball and bat after receiving the Player of the Match award

Mohammed Siraj impresses with his tireless aggression and skill, leading India's pace attack to success in the England Tests. Praised by Joe Root and Virat Kohli, Siraj proves himself as a key player.

“I believe you bowl every ball for your country, not for yourself. (When) you play for the country, give it everything...”

Mohammed Siraj has emerged as a key figure in India's pace attack, showcasing his skills and determination in a series of challenging Tests in England.

The silent guardian. The watchful protector. The dark knight.

THE Mohammed Siraj 🔥 pic.twitter.com/UJrvVb5XFU

— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) August 4, 2025

Siraj stepped up in the absence of Mohammed Shami, who was ruled out due to injury, and with Jasprit Bumrah's limited availability, taking on a more prominent role and delivering impressive performances.

With the absence of key bowlers, Mohammed Siraj shouldered greater responsibility and responded with a remarkable effort, playing all five Tests and emerging as the series' top wicket-taker.

Siraj's never-say-die attitude played a crucial role in India's 2-2 series draw, with the team winning key matches in Birmingham and at the Oval – both games where Jasprit Bumrah didn't feature.

185.3 overs - 'Not a problem when you're playing for the country'

Mohammed Siraj 🙌 #ENGvIND pic.twitter.com/pZ13PT57kE

— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) August 4, 2025

Mohammed Siraj was phenomenal, bowling over 185 overs in the series and claiming 23 wickets. According to CricViz, he also drew 283 false shots from the England batsmen, showcasing his relentless aggression.

England coach Brendon McCullum was among those who praised Siraj's tireless efforts, impressed by the Indian pacer's intensity and performance throughout the series.

England coach Brendon McCullum praised Mohammed Siraj's impressive performance, saying, “You got to tip your cap sometimes,” after Siraj played a key role in India's thrilling six-run win in the series finale.

“A guy playing his fifth test match (of the series), bowling 30 overs, bowling 90 miles-an-hour in the 30th over to take five wickets to get the job done - fair play.”

Indian cricketer Mohammed Siraj hit Cristiano Ronaldo's SIUUU after taking the winning wicket vs. England 🔥 pic.twitter.com/DZCkQPHuSM

— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) August 4, 2025

Mohammed Siraj showed remarkable endurance, playing all five Tests in a row without letting up. He was relentless in his pursuit of wickets, consistently bringing intensity to the game regardless of the match situation.

Siraj's efforts earned praise from several cricketing greats, with Joe Root labeling him a “real warrior” and Virat Kohli commending his unwavering aggression on the field.

Virat Kohli praised Mohammed Siraj's dedication, writing on X, “Special mention to Siraj who will put everything on the line for the team. Extremely happy for him.”

Siraj, who was recognized as the player of the match at The Oval, remained focused on the game without worrying about his workload, saying, “My body is fine.”

“(Whether) you bowl the sixth over or the ninth over, I don't care,” he told reporters on Monday.

“I believe you bowl every ball for your country, not for yourself. (When) you play for the country, give it everything.”