Riding with Siraj: On the front seat of a roller-coaster

Mohammed Siraj, the Indian fast bowler, was the epitome of a roller-coaster ride throughout the series. He was the one who rode every twist, turn, plunge, and peak with unwavering enthusiasm and dedication.

After India's historic win at The Oval, Siraj sprinted across the turf to catch up with his teammate Prasidh Krishna, with whom he shared a heartfelt hug. This moment was a testament to the bond between the two fast bowlers, who had been through thick and thin together throughout the series.

Siraj's journey was not without its ups and downs. He had a misstep that cost India a wicket, and possibly the match and the series. However, he bounced back with renewed energy and determination, setting his phone wallpaper to an image of Cristiano Ronaldo with the caption "Believe".

Throughout the series, Siraj was the only fast-bowling survivor, still running and believing in himself. He was the one who ran in, no matter what, with his heart beating fast and his hands off the rail.

In the final session of the series, Siraj delivered a 143kph full ball that dipped late and snuck under Jamie Overton's bat swing to knock out the off-stump and end the series. This delivery was a perfect reflection of Siraj's own arc over the six weeks, from his struggles in the first innings to his redemption in the final session.

Siraj's story is one of perseverance, dedication, and self-belief. He has made himself available – in body, in spirit, in fight, and in skill – and has taken 51 wickets at an average of 18.92 in nine Test wins in SENA. He has come a long way since his debut at the MCG, where he asked Ajinkya Rahane why he hadn't bowled in the first session of that match. It wasn't petulance; it was hunger.

In the end, Siraj's journey was one of growth, self-discovery, and redemption. He has learned to believe in himself, and India knows that they can count on him when things get tough.