Is Mohammed Siraj overrated now?

The right-arm fast bowler Mohammed Siraj is one of the key names in the present Indian pace bowling line-up. But his continuous struggle with the ball in recent international matches has raised a big question: Is Mohammed Siraj overrated now? 

In Indian cricket pace bowling, Mohammed Siraj is known for his pace and aggression. The right-arm fast bowler is known for his seam bowling, along with the excellent skill of swinging the ball in both directions. When he bowls in rhythm, it brings the best picture for the pace bowling fans, as his desperate attitude doesn't allow the batters to breathe comfortably. 

In the absence of Mohammed Shami in the recent Indian cricket team and the massive workload pressure on Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj has to take a crucial responsibility in the Indian pace bowling line-up. Siraj has been active in international cricket for more than seven years and more than four years in Test cricket. However, his recent performances are far from satisfactory for his national team, and in the recent pressure situation, confidence with him has only been downgraded. 

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Mohammed Siraj disappointed in the latest Border-Gavaskar Trophy

Siraj has recorded 100 Test wickets in 36 games along with 71 ODI wickets and 14 T20I wickets in 44 and 16 matches, respectively. In the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 in Australia, Siraj picked up 20 wickets and ended as the fourth leading wicket-taker and the second most wicket-taker for India in that series. However, his bowling average in that series was 31.15, most among the pacers who delivered more than 500 balls in that series. While the right-arm fast bowler delivered the second most balls in that Test series (943 balls), he conceded the most runs in that series (623 runs).

Since 2022, 12 bowlers have delivered 500 or more overs in Test cricket, and Siraj holds the record for the highest boundaries per over (0.52) in this period. His inconsistent bowling rhythms are only rising with time, and it is already becoming a big concern for the Indian cricket team. We are still waiting to see more responsible Siraj, which has yet to be proven.

India tour of England 2025: Mohammed Siraj has a great opportunity

The ongoing England tour is very crucial for Mohammed Siraj, as he has many things to prove. While Jasprit Bumrah is taking the key role in the Indian pace-bowling line-up in this tour, Siraj has to provide strong support with his fair experience. If he performs well enough, it will be beneficial for the Indian cricket team. Otherwise, Siraj's international cricket career will enter deep trouble.