Mohammed Siraj silenced the journalist on the question of poor form, saying- 'Sir, I took 20 wickets...'

Indian team fast bowler Mohammed Siraj gave a befitting reply to a journalist who described his performance in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy as relatively weak.

After leading India to a close six-run win at The Oval, Siraj was asked what improvements he made in his performance for the Anderson-Tendulkar series, while he was seen struggling in Australia.

Siraj gave a befitting reply.

Before talking about his preparations, Mohammed Siraj reminded the journalist that he had taken 20 wickets in the five-match series in Australia, which cannot be called a bad performance.

The Indian pacer pointed out how bowling with Jasprit Bumrah and being the leader of the bowling attack are two different challenges.

I took 20 wickets in BGT, sir. When Jassi bhai was bowling well, it was my responsibility to bowl in partnership. I was not trying to experiment much because if I did that, I would have conceded runs, and the pressure would not have been created. My responsibility was to create pressure from the other end.

Siraj's performance in Australia

Mohammad Siraj's performance in Australia was excellent. He took 20 wickets. India lost the series 1-3. Even then, Siraj played all five Tests and took four wickets in an innings in the day/night Test. He finished the series as the fourth-highest wicket-taker. He became the highest wicket-taker for India after Bumrah.

Praise for Woakes

Mohammad Siraj praised English player Chris Woakes, who came out to bat in the Oval Test despite a shoulder injury.

Woakes has to be praised for coming out to bat despite a broken shoulder. Most players do not come out to bat in such situations. This shows his passion for cricket. My plan against England was to bowl at the stumps. I wanted to make the team win.

Siraj's performance

Mohammad Siraj took part in all five Tests on the England tour and bowled 185.3 overs. During this, the right-arm fast bowler took a total of 23 wickets. Siraj took 9 wickets in the Oval Test and was adjudged the Player of the Match for this brilliant performance.