Ravichandran Ashwin has singled out Mohammed Siraj for special praise, describing him as a "warhorse" ahead of India's challenging five-Test series against England. This series, which marks the beginning of India's ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle for 2025-27, is particularly significant as it showcases a team in transition.
Ashwin's comments, made during a discussion with Boria Majumdar of Revsportz, highlighted the importance of a well-rounded bowling attack, especially in English conditions. He emphasized the need to include Kuldeep Yadav in the playing XI, depending on the presence of moisture on the pitch. According to Ashwin, a balanced attack should feature Jasprit Bumrah as the spearhead, Ravindra Jadeja for control and batting depth, and Kuldeep Yadav for his wicket-taking ability. It was within this context that Ashwin lauded Mohammed Siraj, adding, "Not to forget Mohammed Siraj, who is like a warhorse."
This endorsement comes at a time when Siraj is proving his mettle in the ongoing IPL 2025 season. After being released by Royal Challengers Bangalore, Siraj has found a new home with the Gujarat Titans and has been delivering impactful performances. In a recent match against Sunrisers Hyderabad, Siraj achieved his career-best figures, taking four wickets for just 17 runs and earning the Player of the Match award. His contributions were instrumental in dismantling the Sunrisers' batting lineup, including the crucial wickets of Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma in the powerplay. This performance also marked his 100th IPL wicket, a significant milestone in his career.
Siraj's impressive form in IPL 2025 follows a strong showing in previous seasons, although with some fluctuations. In the 2023 season, he took ten wickets in the powerplay for RCB but only managed five in the following year, indicating a slight dip in his powerplay bowling. However, his recent performances suggest a resurgence, with his ability to take wickets with the new ball making him a valuable asset. As of April 7, 2025, he was joint-second in the Purple Cap race with nine wickets in four matches, also holding the distinction of taking the most wickets in the powerplay in IPL 2025.
Despite his recent successes, Siraj's omission from India's squad for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 raised eyebrows. Ashwin himself questioned this decision, pointing out that Siraj had been India's leading wicket-taker among pacers in ODIs since 2023. This exclusion underscores the competitive nature of the Indian pace attack and the various factors that go into team selection.
Looking ahead to the Test series against England, Siraj's role will be crucial. With a relatively inexperienced bowling lineup, his experience and aggression will be vital in challenging the English batsmen. His ability to bowl with "real fire in his belly," as described by Kane Williamson, and his familiarity with English conditions will make him a key player in India's quest for success in the series.
Ashwin's "warhorse" descriptor encapsulates Siraj's relentless energy, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the team. As India embarks on this new WTC cycle under the captaincy of Shubman Gill, the contributions of seasoned campaigners like Mohammed Siraj will be invaluable.
