India pacer Mohammed Siraj talked candidly about his outstanding performance in the just finished Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, when he participated in all five Test matches and bowled an unbelievable 186 overs for his nation. Siraj’s strategy is noteworthy at a time when workload management is one of the most hotly contested issues in cricket. It all comes down to pride, passion, and playing for India.
Siraj discussed how he was able to complete such a heavy workout throughout five demanding Test matches and claimed that his motivation stems solely from playing for his nation.
“To be honest, I don’t know. But when you play for your country, you don’t think how it might affect your body so much as you think about doing it for your country,” Siraj said while speaking to Revsportz.
“People like us have had one dream since childhood, and that is to be able to play for the country. And when that opportunity comes, we grab that opportunity with both hands. I am a believer in utilising whatever opportunities (we get) to play as many matches as possible for India, and try to win them,” he added.
Siraj maintained that he was prepared to bowl even more if necessary, even though he had already bowled 186 overs in the series.
“Hundred percent I could’ve played even if there was another Test match,” he said.
Siraj made it apparent that serving India always comes before personal fatigue when asked if he ever felt tired.
“No, it is my priority. I can do anything for Test cricket. I like the way Test cricket throws the toughest challenges and struggles at us, just like life does,” he explained.
Siraj also shared his thoughts on the unique charm of Test cricket.
“Test cricket gives mental fatigue, emotional fatigue, body tiredness, et cetera, but that is the challenge that I love most about it. You can have one bad spell and you better yourself in the next. In Test cricket, we get another innings to make a comeback, just like life where we get chances to better ourselves every day. I like and enjoy these facts about Test cricket, and just want to give my hundred percent without thinking much about my performance being good or bad,” he noted.
Siraj took 23 wickets at an average of over 32, including two five-wicket hauls and a four-fer, to become the series’ top wicket-taker.
