In the absence of Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammed Siraj performed exceptionally well in the third Test against England in Rajkot. Ashwin had withdrawn from the match due to a family medical emergency. Siraj stepped up and claimed 4/84 as India bowled out England for 319 in their first innings.
Siraj shared his thoughts on the absence of Ravichandran Ashwin and expressed hope for his mother to get well soon. Speaking at a press conference at the end of the third day’s play, Siraj shared his thoughts on Ashwin’s absence and how the team dealt with it.
“In the morning, when we found out that Ash bhai wasn’t present, additional responsibility came our way. Rohit bhai informed us that we’d need to bowl for extended periods, and I enjoy bowling lengthy spells. In Test cricket, a fast bowler can’t unsettle a batsman in just a few overs. Our success came from those extended spells,” Siraj said.
“Ash bhai was our fifth bowler, and I hope his mother gets better soon,” he added. Siraj’s words of encouragement and support for Ashwin’s family demonstrate the strong bond and camaraderie within the Indian cricket team
“When bowling lengthy spells, it’s important to maintain consistency rather than attempting too much. The England batters aren’t used to defending all six balls in an over. If they’ve defended two, they’re likely to go on the attack in the third,” he concluded.
Talking about the Rajkot wicket, Siraj reckons that the ball will keep a bit low on the fourth day.
“I think the ball will stay a bit low on the fourth day, but it’s challenging to predict accurately for this pitch. From my assessment of this wicket, success is more likely if you consistently bowl at the stumps. Bowling wide might result in conceding runs,” he said.
Siraj also believes that spinners will have a say in the final innings of the Test match.
“Spinners will certainly have an impact in the fourth innings since the ball is spinning. Although not every delivery in an over turns, there’s usually one oddball that does. By bowling patiently and targeting a specific spot, you can pick up wickets,” he concluded.
In the latest positive development for the Indian side, The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed Ashwin’s return, stating that he would be back in action and contribute to the team’s cause on Day 4. Ashwin had flown home on Friday evening to attend to his ailing mother. Ashwin’s absence was felt on Day 3, as India’s bowlers were given longer spells, but the side produced a brilliant performance.