India’s two-match Test series against the West Indies may have ended with a dominant 2-0 clean sweep, but the spotlight after the final Test in Delhi was on Mohammed Siraj, who was named India’s Impact Player of the Series. The decision surprised many, given that Yashasvi Jaiswal topped the run charts, Ravindra Jadeja shone with both bat and ball, and Kuldeep Yadav led the wicket tally.
Even skipper Shubman Gill, who struck a brilliant unbeaten 129 in the first Test, was overlooked for the honour. Mohammed Siraj, however, made a strong case for himself with his relentless energy, aggression, and consistency throughout the series.
Across two Tests, the 30-year-old fast bowler took 10 wickets, playing a pivotal role in setting up India’s victories. In the series opener at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Siraj struck early and often, claiming seven wickets in the match — four in the first innings and three in the second — to dismantle the West Indies batting order.
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In the second Test at Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium, where conditions offered little assistance to pacers, Siraj’s discipline and effort stood out once again. He finished with three wickets, demonstrating his adaptability on a slower surface where spinners dominated proceedings.
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Praising Mohammed Siraj’s performance, Tamil Nadu batter Narayan Jagadeesan, one of India’s newest squad members, lauded the Hyderabad pacer’s consistency and leadership. “There were many standout performances in the series, but Siraj was simply impeccable. His energy, aggression, and encouragement on the field lifted everyone around him,” N Jagadeesan said in a video shared by the BCCI.
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Siraj, who has made Test cricket his favourite format, was visibly elated after being named the Impact Player of the Series. “This series went really well. In Ahmedabad, there was help for fast bowlers, but in Delhi, every wicket was hard-earned. That makes this award even more special,” he said.
Reflecting on his passion for the format, Siraj added, “Test cricket challenges you both mentally and physically. When your hard work pays off and contributes to the team’s success, it’s the most satisfying feeling. I’m proud and motivated to keep performing at this level.”
With his tireless spells and unflinching spirit, Mohammed Siraj once again proved why he’s one of India’s most dependable red-ball bowlers.
