Mohammed Siraj marked his return to red-ball cricket in emphatic fashion, leading from the front as Hyderabad captain on the opening day of their Ranji Trophy Elite Group D clash against Chhattisgarh at the Gymkhana Ground on Thursday, January 29. Asked to bowl first, Siraj produced a fiery opening spell, setting the tone for Hyderabad with an impressive four-wicket haul.

The India pacer struck early, removing Anuj Tiwary and Sanjeet Desai in his first spell to put Chhattisgarh under immediate pressure. His pace, accuracy, and ability to extract movement off the surface made batting uncomfortable in the opening hour, as Hyderabad enjoyed early dominance.

However, Chhattisgarh found a way back through resilient middle-order efforts from Vikalp Tiwari and Prateek Yadav. The duo stitched together a crucial partnership, steadying the innings with knocks of 94 and 106, respectively. Their counterattack helped Chhattisgarh recover from the early damage and push towards a competitive total.

WATCH – Pakistan Third Umpire’s DRS Fumble During Babar Azam Review Leaves Fans In Splits

Just when a century seemed inevitable for Vikalp, Siraj returned to break the partnership, dismissing him on 94. He followed it up with the wicket of Aditya Sarwate, ensuring Hyderabad regained control. Chhattisgarh were eventually bowled out for 283 in under 73 overs, with Siraj finishing as the standout bowler. He returned figures of 4 for 56 from 17 overs, including three maidens, underlining his impact with both the new and old ball.

Ranji Trophy Watch 👀
Mohammed Siraj picks up 4/55 from 16 overs against Chhattisgarh#RanjiTrophy pic.twitter.com/tXWNFxDgVj

— vinit (@vinitsport5d) January 29, 2026

Although Hyderabad are already out of contention for the knockout stages, the performance highlighted the team’s intent to finish the season strongly. Chhattisgarh, meanwhile, remain in the race for qualification, albeit needing a bonus-point win to keep their hopes alive.

WATCH – Suryakumar Yadav’s ‘VIP Treatment’ For Sanju Samson Steals The Show

Siraj’s outing was also a timely response after a tough captaincy debut against Mumbai, where Hyderabad endured a heavy defeat. With no immediate international commitments, the Ranji Trophy provides a valuable platform for Siraj to maintain match fitness and sharpen his red-ball skills. His performances will certainly be closely monitored by Indian selectors ahead of future assignments.