When India took the field at Edgbaston without Jasprit Bumrah, many fans were worried. But fast bowler Mohammed Siraj turned that worry into pride by delivering a sensational six-wicket performance against England on Day 3 of the second Test. His incredible spell not only gave India a big lead but also proved once again why Siraj is one of the most dependable pacers in the Indian team today.
Siraj picked up 6 wickets for 70 runs, including big names like Joe Root and Ben Stokes, and wrapped up England’s innings with fire and accuracy. What made it more special was the fact that he didn’t do anything dramatically different—he just kept things simple, focused on tighter lines, and backed himself with the new ball. On a slow and lifeless pitch, his ability to attack the stumps and bowl straight was the key. His figures were not only match-winning, but also the best by an Indian pacer at Edgbaston since 1986.
Siraj’s journey makes this moment even more emotional. In a video tribute shared by the broadcasters, he was seen remembering his humble roots. “Na shoes, na coach, na paisa. Dad auto chalate the… India khelunga socha bhi nahi tha,” Siraj said. That emotional statement touched fans across the country and showed how far he has come—from the gullies of Hyderabad to becoming a hero in England.
This performance also added to an interesting stat. Siraj has often performed better when he isn’t playing alongside Bumrah or Shami. In fact, his bowling average drops to just 22.27 when he plays without either of them. It’s not that he doesn’t enjoy playing with India’s senior pacers, but when the responsibility is solely on him, he steps up in style.
Even though England had two centurions in Smith and Brook, Siraj’s bowling brought India back into the game. His perfect mix of swing, seam, and spirit showed what it means to bowl with heart. The numbers were strong too—he hit the stumps more than any other pacer in the match, took three wickets with deliveries projected to hit the stumps, and turned 26 false shots into six dismissals.
After the match, Siraj said, “I’ve been waiting for this. For over a year, I was getting stuck at four wickets. This is very special for me, especially because I had only four-wicket hauls in England before.”
He became only the fourth Indian to take a five-wicket haul at Edgbaston, joining legends like Kapil Dev and Ishant Sharma. It was also the first time in over 30 years that any visiting fast bowler took a six-for on this ground.
For fans, this wasn’t just about the wickets. It was about witnessing a player who has risen through struggle and doubt, proudly leading the Indian pace attack. With Bumrah absent, Siraj didn’t just fill in. He owned the role and reminded everyone that India’s pace future is in safe hands.
Now, as India looks ahead in this series, they will do so with renewed confidence—because Siraj has shown that when the challenge comes, he’s always ready to fight, and win.
IND vs ENG Day 3 Highlights: India in Strong Position at Stumps
On Day 3 of the India vs England Test in Birmingham, India ended at 64/1 with a lead of 244 runs. KL Rahul (28*) and Karun Nair (7*) are unbeaten and will continue on Day 4. Yashasvi Jaiswal scored a quick 28 but got out early.
Earlier, England were bowled out for 407 in reply to India’s 587. Jamie Smith remained unbeaten with a superb 184*, while Harry Brook scored 158 before falling to Akash Deep. Mohammed Siraj was the star with the ball, taking six important wickets.
Smith got his century in the first session and later crossed 150 after lunch. Brook also hit his ninth Test century in the post-lunch session as England kept fighting back. At lunch, England were 249/5, still trailing by 338. Siraj had given India an excellent start in the morning, removing both Joe Root (22) and Ben Stokes (0) in the same over.
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