Siraj Under Fire: Kaif Criticizes Approach After Test Defeat
Following India's five-wicket loss to England in the first Test at Headingley, former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif has voiced his concerns regarding Mohammed Siraj's bowling performance.
Despite the Headingley pitch offering minimal support to bowlers, Jasprit Bumrah managed to claim a five-wicket haul in the first innings. Prasidh Krishna and Mohammed Siraj took three and two wickets, respectively, but both conceded runs at relatively high economy rates.
The Indian bowling attack struggled further in the second innings. England's openers, Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett, forged a significant 188-run partnership while chasing a target of 371 runs. England ultimately achieved the target with five wickets in hand.
Krishna and Shardul Thakur each managed to secure two wickets, while Ravindra Jadeja claimed one. Notably, both Bumrah and Siraj went wicketless despite bowling 19 and 14 overs, respectively. Siraj's total contribution for the match was two wickets from 41 overs.
Kaif addressed Siraj's approach directly on his YouTube channel, stating, "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 analyzed the strategic play during the match. "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," he explained.
Highlighting the importance of a strong bowling lineup, Kaif concluded, "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."
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