India’s aggressive batting strategy in the second innings, led by Ishan Kishan’s T20-style approach, has put West Indies in a difficult position in the second Test. Setting a formidable 365-run target for the hosts, India’s pacer Mohammed Siraj revealed that their plan was to score quickly and give the West Indies less time to chase down the total.
“Ishan is an aggressive batter and has the ability to hit the ball long and hard. With Rishabh Pant absent, he stepped up as a wicketkeeper-batsman. Our plan was to score as many runs in a short period, so we could have more overs to bowl out the West Indies after the declaration,” said Mohammed Siraj.
On day four, India’s veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin already proved his effectiveness, taking two crucial wickets and leaving the West Indies struggling at 76/2. Siraj expressed confidence in Ashwin, expecting him to trouble the hosts’ batting lineup with the turning wicket on the final day of the Test.
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Mohammed Siraj himself had a notable performance in the first innings, securing a five-wicket haul, helping India dismiss West Indies for 255 in response to their first innings total of 438. Despite challenging conditions and intermittent rain, Siraj executed his plans perfectly, sticking to stump-to-stump bowling and utilizing seam to great effect.
The 29-year-old pacer also praised debutant Mukesh Kumar, who bowled 23 overs and took two wickets. Mukesh’s experience in bowling on challenging domestic wickets helped him adapt to the flat track in Port of Spain.
“Mukesh is not a new player; he regularly plays Ranji Trophy and is used to bowling on difficult wickets. Performing well in domestic cricket is a significant achievement, and handling nerves in his debut Test match for India is commendable,” added Mohammed Siraj.
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With senior pacers like Jasprit Bumrah recovering from an injury and Mohammed Shami being rested for the West Indies series, Mohammed Siraj embraced the responsibility and challenge of leading the Indian pace-bowling unit. His consistent performances have solidified his position in the team, making him a vital asset for the side.
As the final day of the Test approaches, all eyes will be on Ashwin and the Indian bowlers, aiming to complete a clean sweep of the series against the West Indies.
