Indian pace bowler Mohammed Siraj was “very happy” to see his batting practice pay off in India’s win against Pakistan at the 2024 T20 World Cup, as India registered a six-run win. Siraj came to bat at number 11 and faced well the yorkers from Pakistani pacers to collect three doubles (two were helped by overthrows) and a single in seven balls as well. It was only the third time he got to bat in a T20I and added some crucial runs as well.

“I have practiced a lot for it in the nets, even in the IPL, I practiced a lot because whatever runs the tailenders score are very crucial at the end of the day,” he said in a BCCI video. “At the end, it became clear how important my seven runs were. I am very happy with those seven runs and the win.”

In the same video, Yuzvendra Chahal also had a chat with Rishabh Pant, who played a brilliant knock of 42 (31) and took three important catches as well. However, when asked about his favourite grab, Pant lauded ‘Miyan’ Siraj for his efforts in the field.

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“All catches are favourite because when you come in after so long, you want to do well in everything,” Pant said. “At the same time, the World Cup has just started and my focus is just on putting in the efforts. But, today, Miyan fielded really well so he deserves a bit of praise too.”

Meanwhile, Siraj also spoke about his bowling effort as well. Although he couldn’t take any wickets, he gave away just 19 runs in four overs, keeping the pressure up on the opposition in key phases.

“India and Pakistan have a big rivalry, it’s a big occasion,” he further added. “My plan was that because it’s a small total, I should not try too much, keep it simple and execute it well and if the batter takes the risk and hits from there then it’s just a good shot. I just wanted to keep bowling at the same spot.”