In the aftermath of India’s heartbreaking loss in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 final against Australia, former India spinner Anil Kumble has shed light on the significance of Mohammed Siraj’s ability to perform with the new ball. Speaking to ESPNcricinfo after the match, Kumble emphasized Siraj’s need to be more impactful with the new ball, while also acknowledging Mohammed Shami’s versatility across all phases of the game.
Mohammed Siraj and Mohammed Shami each claimed a wicket in India’s unsuccessful attempt to defend their title against Australia in Ahmedabad.
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“Mohammed Siraj needs the new ball to be really effective. Whereas Mohammed Shami can do the job for all the phases. Siraj somehow gives the impression, at least from what we saw today, that he certainly required the new ball to be a lot more effective,” Anil Kumble stated.
An electric opening spell ⚡️
Jasprit Bumrah 🤝 Mohammed Shami#CWC23 #INDvAUS pic.twitter.com/yEYvuAiGJ1
— ICC Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) November 19, 2023
Mohammed Shami emerged as the tournament’s leading wicket-taker, amassing an impressive 24 scalps in just seven matches. Siraj, on the other hand, contributed 14 wickets in 11 appearances throughout the World Cup.
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The final witnessed a brilliant opening spell from Jasprit Bumrah and Shami, who reduced Australia to a precarious 30/3 early on. However, India’s hopes of a comeback were dashed by Travis Head’s scintillating century and his crucial partnership with Marnus Labuschagne. The duo stitched together a match-winning 192-run stand to propel Australia to a memorable victory in Ahmedabad.
Despite India’s disappointing end to the tournament, Kumble’s observations regarding Siraj’s new-ball effectiveness highlight an area for improvement as the team prepares for future challenges.
