Mohammed Siraj took five wickets in the first innings of the second Test against the West Indies on a ground that provided minimal assistance to speed bowlers.
After the 1-0 series victory over the West Indies, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma complimented Mohammed Siraj for stepping up in the absence of seasoned pacers. Siraj won his first Man-of-the-Match award in a traditional five-day game after taking 5 for 60 in the West Indies’ first innings of the second Test, which concluded in a tie after the fifth and final day of play at the Queen’s Park Oval wiped out by relentless rain.
The West Indies were 76 for two at the close of play on the fourth evening, having been set an intimidating score of 365.
“We’ve come to the proper place. “It’s all about getting the job done,” Rohit stated at the award ceremony.
When asked if Siraj is ready to lead the pace attack, Rohit stated that he is not looking for a single bowler to take the lead.
“I’ve been keeping a careful eye on you, Siraj. He’s made such a big step. This attack has been led by him. I don’t want anyone in charge of the attack. I want everyone to take the initiative when they have the ball in their hands. “You want the entire pace battery to bear responsibility,” he explained.
While rain appeared to have denied India, Rohit stated that his team remained confident because the hosts were compelled to bat last on a surface that had few demons.
“Every victory is unique. Playing in the West Indies presents its own set of challenges. I’m pleased with how things turned out. We gave it our best attempt, but we didn’t get any action today. We genuinely set out with good intentions yesterday.
“The rain had the final say. We were absolutely certain. You understand how difficult it is to bat last. We always wanted that kind of score when the opponent would go for it. On the surface, there wasn’t much. No play today, which is sad for us.” The Indian captain also praised centurion Virat Kohli and Ishan Kishan, who hit a 34-ball 52 in the second innings before the declaration.
Despite the absence of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami, Siraj claimed he was never under pressure.
“I’m overjoyed because this is my first player of the match award in Tests.” The pacers had little assistance. My plans were basic and easy to carry out.
“Picking wickets in conditions like this gives you a lot of confidence.” “Rohit bhai told me to believe in myself, not to take any pressure, and to have fun,” Siraj explained.
West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite, who saw his team surrender in Dominica in three days, said he was pleased to see the hitters last more than 100 overs in the first innings.
In response to India’s first innings total of 438, the West Indies were bowled out for 255. India scored rapidly in their second essay, finishing at 181 for two in 24 overs.
“We showed some fight with the bat in this game.” We can improve our bowling discipline. The hitters made a strong comeback. We lost five wickets yesterday, which was disappointing. “It’s satisfying to see the top order bat for 100 overs,” Brathwaite remarked.
“We were upbeat; we had 98 overs on a relatively good pitch.” The chase has begun. We didn’t get an opportunity because of the weather.
“Preparation is essential. We need to bat for extended periods of time against good teams. Club cricket is played in several countries,” he noted.
