India star Mohammed Siraj receives praise from Pakistan's Wasim Akram, with the legendary bowler stating that Siraj is not just a support bowler anymore.
In the thrilling India vs England Test series of 2025, one player stood out from the crowd – Mohammed Siraj. The fast bowler's exceptional performance not only secured critical victories for India but also set new benchmarks for Asian bowlers in England.
Siraj's career statistics up to August 2025 include 41 Test matches with 123 wickets at an average of 31.06, five 5-wicket hauls, and a batting average of about 4.7 runs in Tests. His recent performances are symbolic of the new generation of Indian fast bowlers who can excel on foreign pitches.
During the England tour, Siraj delivered a stellar show, claiming the top wicket-taker spot in the series with 23 scalps. He recorded two five-wicket hauls, one each in the second and fifth matches, earning him a Player of the Match award in the fifth Test.
In the first Test, Siraj took 2 wickets for 85 runs in the first innings and 2 for 31 in the second. In the second Test, he claimed 1 wicket for 140 runs. However, it was in the third Test at The Oval where Siraj truly shone, delivering critical nine wickets at 86 runs in the first innings and 104 runs in the second, helping India secure victory and save the series.
Despite a comparatively modest performance in the fourth Test in Manchester, Siraj's overall series performance reaffirmed his status as a leading Test bowler in the Indian team.
Legendary Pakistan fast bowler Wasim Akram commended Siraj's performance, noting that India's plan to rest their best bowler and rely on their bench strength worked perfectly. Akram described Siraj's display as "the best I have seen in the recent past." Akram's endorsement of Siraj's abilities will likely spark discussion among cricket pundits and fans.
Akram also praised Siraj's focus and resilience, despite a heavy workload, bowling nearly 186 overs across five Tests. Siraj's elevation to a leadership position further reflects the increased depth in Indian cricket.
Off the field, a video of Siraj celebrating Raksha Bandhan with Asha Bhosle's granddaughter Zanai has gone viral, adding a heartwarming touch to his impressive performance.
As the series concluded, Akram gave India a 60% chance on Day 5 of the final Test, praising Siraj's performance for securing the breakthrough needed for victory. With Siraj's outstanding performance and Akram's statement, the focus is on the increased depth in Indian cricket, a promising sign for future series.
[1] Cricinfo - Mohammed Siraj Player Profile [2] ESPNCricinfo - Siraj's 6/21 in 2023 Asia Cup final [3] Cricinfo - Siraj takes one wicket in Manchester Test [4] Cricinfo - Siraj's Player of the Match performance in the final Test
Siraj's outstanding performances in the England tour, particularly in The Oval Test, not only solidified his status as a leading Test bowler but also showcased the emergence of a new generation of Indian fast bowlers capable of excelling in sports overseas.
Legendary Pakistani fast bowler Wasim Akram, impressed by Siraj's focus and resilience, described his display as "the best I have seen in the recent past," acknowledging the increased depth in Indian cricket.
