Siraj Under Fire: Bowling Strategy Questioned After India's First Test Loss to England

Siraj Faces Scrutiny After India's Test Defeat Against England

Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif has voiced his concerns regarding Mohammed Siraj's bowling performance following India's five-wicket loss to England in the first Test at Leeds.

Mohammed Siraj of India (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)

Despite the Headingley pitch offering minimal assistance to bowlers, Jasprit Bumrah distinguished himself by securing a five-wicket haul in the first innings. Prasidh Krishna and Mohammed Siraj managed to claim three and two wickets, respectively. However, their economy rates were notably high, with Krishna conceding runs at 6.40 and Siraj at 4.50.

The Indian bowling performance experienced a further setback in the second innings. England's opening batsmen, Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett, forged a formidable 188-run partnership while chasing a target of 371 runs. England ultimately achieved the target, with five wickets still in hand.

Krishna and Shardul Thakur each managed to take two wickets, while Ravindra Jadeja claimed one. Disappointingly, both Bumrah and Siraj went wicketless, despite bowling 19 and 14 overs, respectively. Siraj's total contribution for the match amounted to just two wickets from 41 overs.

Kaif commented on his YouTube channel, "People say Mohammed Siraj tried very hard, bowls with his heart. Sir, don't bowl with your heart, bowl with your mind and with line and length where we can get wickets."

Kaif further added, "Why didn't Bumrah take wickets in the second innings? It's because the batters played defensively. They attacked Krishna, Shardul, and Siraj. Gameplan becomes very easy when you know Bumrah will bowl 4-5 overs, play him well."

Kaif concluded by saying, "In the same bowling lineup, you give him (Gill) Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, and Bumrah. I guarantee you Gill will win this Test series. Those are the bowlers who know how to take 20 wickets."

IND vs ENG Series Schedule:

• 1st Test: England v India, 20-24 June 2025, Headingley, Leeds – England won by 5 wickets
• 2nd Test: England v India, 2-6 July 2025, Edgbaston, Birmingham
• 3rd Test: England v India, 10-14 July 2025, Lord’s, London
• 4th Test: England v India, 23-27 July 2025, Old Trafford, Manchester
• 5th Test: England v India, 31 July-4 August 2025, The Oval, London