India’s pace spearhead Mohammed Siraj had a day to forget in the ongoing Boxing Day Test against the Australia National Cricket Team at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Tasked with sharing the new ball alongside Jasprit Bumrah, Siraj failed to make an early impact, struggling to find his rhythm and precision. His bowling lacked the incisiveness that India desperately needed, allowing Australian batters to score freely without much trouble.
The lack of breakthroughs wasn’t the only issue for Siraj. His fielding efforts added to India’s woes, with several lapses that put pressure on his teammates. One glaring example came during the first ball of the 67th over when Jasprit Bumrah bowled a pitched-up delivery outside off to Steve Smith.
WATCH – Virat Kohli Booed By MCG Crowd After Brilliant Fielding Effort
Steve Smith drove it past extra cover, and what should have been a routine single turned into three runs due to Siraj’s misjudged slide. His mistimed effort gifted Australia extra runs and showcased the frustration mounting within the Indian camp.
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Interestingly, Siraj’s error inadvertently set up a breakthrough for India. The extended opportunity brought Travis Head to the crease, exposing him to Bumrah’s brilliance early in his innings. Bumrah wasted no time, delivering a peach of a delivery that uprooted Head’s stumps, dismissing the in-form batter for a duck.
WATCH – Jasprit Bumrah Strikes With Brilliant Delivery To Dismiss Travis Head For A Duck
This dismissal shifted momentum slightly back in India’s favor and underscored Bumrah’s value as a game-changer. Jasprit Bumrah followed up with the wicket of Mitchell Marsh, reigniting hope for the visitors. However, Siraj’s struggles remain a significant concern. His inability to trouble the batters or provide adequate support to Bumrah has been evident throughout the series.
In this match alone, Siraj bowled 13 wicketless overs, leaving India heavily reliant on Bumrah’s individual brilliance. With the series in the balance, Siraj’s underperformance is something the team management will urgently need to address to avoid further setbacks.
