India vs. England Test: Mohammed Siraj's Bowling Criticized After Defeat; Kaif Urges Strategic Approach

Friday - 27/06/2025 09:35

Mohammad Kaif has criticised Mohammed Siraj's bowling performance in the first Test against England, where India suffered a five-wicket defeat. Kaif emphasized the need for Siraj to bowl with his mind and focus on line and length to take wickets. He also highlighted how England strategically attacked the other bowlers, while playing defensively against Bumrah, ultimately leading to their victory.

Siraj Under Fire: Kaif Criticizes Bowler's Approach After Test Defeat

Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif has voiced his disapproval of Mohammed Siraj's bowling performance following India's five-wicket defeat to England in the first Test at Headingley.

Mohammed Siraj faces criticism after India's Test loss

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

Despite the Headingley pitch offering minimal assistance to bowlers, Jasprit Bumrah managed to secure a five-wicket haul in the first innings. Prasidh Krishna and Mohammed Siraj claimed three and two wickets respectively, although both conceded runs at high economy rates, with Krishna at 6.40 and Siraj at 4.50.

The Indian bowling performance further declined in the second innings. England's openers, Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett, established a substantial 188-run partnership while chasing a target of 371 runs. England successfully reached the target with five wickets to spare.

Krishna and Shardul Thakur each took two wickets, while Ravindra Jadeja claimed one. Bumrah and Siraj went wicketless, bowling 19 and 14 overs respectively. Siraj's total for the match was two wickets from 41 overs.

"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 stated on his YouTube channel.

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

"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," Kaif concluded, emphasizing the importance of experienced bowlers in securing victories.

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

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