In the ongoing second Test at Edgbaston between England and India, Mohammed Siraj and Akash Deep have stepped up to the plate in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, drawing praise from bowling coach Morne Morkel. Bumrah was ruled out of the match, adding pressure on the other bowlers to perform. Morkel lauded Siraj for rising to the occasion and Akash Deep for his aggressive approach, stating that it is a "pleasing sign" for the team.

Mohammed Siraj delivered a stunning performance in the first innings, taking 6 wickets for 70 runs. His fiery spell helped India gain a significant lead. Siraj's performance places him alongside legends like Kapil Dev, Chetan Sharma, and Ishant Sharma as one of the few Indian pacers to achieve a five-wicket haul at Edgbaston. In fact, his 6/70 is the best bowling performance by an Indian at Edgbaston since Chetan Sharma's 6/58 in 1986. Siraj also became the first visiting pacer to take six wickets in an innings at the ground since 1993.

Speaking after his impressive performance, Siraj said he had been waiting for such a moment for over a year. He emphasized the importance of consistency and building pressure, especially with a substantial first-innings total to defend. He also acknowledged the challenges posed by the slow Edgbaston surface and focused on maintaining control and discipline. Siraj credited Akash Deep for his role in maintaining pressure from the other end, which allowed them to dismantle England's batting lineup.

Akash Deep, playing in only his eighth Test, also made a significant impact, taking 4 wickets for 88 runs. He dismissed key English batsmen, including Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope, putting India in a strong position early in the game. Akash Deep's performance was instrumental in India taking a 180-run lead. Akash Deep spoke about the motivation he receives from head coach Gautam Gambhir, which has boosted his confidence. Gambhir's encouragement and positive feedback have helped Akash Deep realize his potential and perform at his best.

Morkel highlighted Akash Deep's attacking approach and his ability to ask questions of the batsmen by attacking the stumps. He also noted that Akash Deep is reaping the benefits of bowling on a good length. Akash Deep himself credited Siraj for maintaining pressure, particularly with the second new ball. The duo's partnership proved to be a potent force, dismantling England's middle and lower order.

The absence of Jasprit Bumrah placed added responsibility on Siraj, who embraced the challenge. Siraj acknowledged his experience, having played 38 Tests, and focused on delivering consistent line and lengths. He also expressed his love for responsibility and challenges, stating that he performs best when there is a burden on his shoulders.

Sachin Tendulkar praised Siraj's accuracy and consistency, noting that his persistence has been rewarded with wickets. Overall, the performances of Mohammed Siraj and Akash Deep have been crucial for India in the Edgbaston Test. Their ability to step up in Bumrah's absence is a positive sign for the team.