Mohammed Siraj Rediscovers Joy in Bowling

Siraj's Desperation Turns to Enjoyment

Mohammed Siraj, the 30-year-old Indian seamer, has rediscovered the joy of bowling after a lull in his performance. In a recent interview, Siraj revealed that he had grown desperate to take wickets, which resulted in him averaging 58 runs per wicket in the home season.

Help from Fellow Players and Coaches

Siraj received help from fellow players and coaches, including pace ace Jasprit Bumrah, who advised him to bowl consistently in one area and not chase wickets. Morne Morkel, India's current bowling coach, also reinforced Siraj's belief by calling him 'a warrior'. Former India bowling coach, Bharat Arun, who played an instrumental role in Siraj's rise through domestic cricket, also spoke with Siraj and told him to enjoy his bowling and not run after wickets.

Siraj's Recent Performance

Siraj has already taken five wickets across two innings in India's big win in Perth and was in rhythm again in the rain-affected game in Canberra. He took the opening wicket and gave away just 18 runs in the seven overs he bowled as he sought to acclimatise himself with the pink ball.

Pink Ball Challenges

Siraj discussed the challenges of bowling with the pink ball, which has a synthetic feeling and a hard seam. He believes that bowling back of length is a better option with the pink ball, as pitching it up does not offer much swing. Siraj has not yet bowled with the pink ball under lights, but plans to practice and learn more about it in the upcoming game in Adelaide.