Though primarily known for his ability to swing the ball and make breakthroughs with the new ball, Mohammed Siraj’s recent performances with the bat in Test cricket have also drawn attention, albeit for different reasons. While not recognized for his batting skills, Siraj has been called upon to hold the line for India in challenging situations, often at the tail end of the innings. His latest Test innings offer a glimpse of his ability to stand firm at the crease, even when his main contribution to the team is his bowling.
Overview of Siraj’s Last Six Test Innings
Here is a look at Mohammed Siraj’s scores in his last six Test innings:
- 0(1)* vs Bangladesh (latest)
- 0(2)* vs England
- 0(6)* vs England
- 3(21)* vs England
- 12(20) vs England
- 0(2)* vs England
These scores highlight Siraj’s position as a lower-order batsman, typically facing the best bowlers in the opposition when India’s main batsmen have already been dismissed. Despite his primary role as a bowler, Siraj’s contributions with the bat reflect his effort to stay at the crease and support the team in crucial moments, even if he’s not adding significant runs.
The Importance of Lower-Order Resistance
Though Siraj’s scores may not appear impressive, his resilience and ability to occupy the crease during these innings can be vital. In Test cricket, the ability of the lower-order batsmen to hang in, block deliveries, and frustrate the opposition can sometimes make a significant difference to the team’s overall score. In matches where every run counts, even a brief partnership involving the tail-enders can tilt the momentum of the game.
Take, for example, his 12 off 20 balls against England. Though it may seem modest, the extra runs added with Siraj at the crease contributed to India’s total, giving the team a marginal advantage and allowing the main batsmen more breathing room to counter-attack later in the match. Similarly, his 3 off 21 balls* against England showcased his ability to fend off quality bowling, ensuring the team was not bowled out quickly.
Siraj’s Value Beyond the Scoreboard
Siraj’s value to the Indian cricket team goes far beyond his individual batting scores. As a bowler, he has emerged as a key player in India’s pace attack, capable of picking up crucial wickets and providing breakthroughs when needed. His batting is seen more as a bonus—an extra layer of effort that embodies the determination of a player who is willing to contribute in any way possible.
In his most recent innings, the 0(1)* against Bangladesh, Siraj didn’t get much opportunity to showcase his batting skills, coming in at the very end of India’s innings. Nevertheless, his presence as a lower-order batsman allows India to eke out a few extra deliveries, frustrating opponents and sometimes leading to crucial last-minute runs.
The Role of a Bowler-Batsman in Test Cricket
The role of a bowler-batsman like Siraj is not to pile on runs but to act as a support for the more established batsmen, either by holding one end or contributing brief partnerships that can help extend the team’s innings. His ability to stand firm in hostile conditions shows his determination and team-first mentality.
Siraj’s scores, especially those not-out innings, reflect that he’s often faced with the task of protecting his wicket while the main batsmen at the other end accumulate runs. Whether he scores runs or not, his presence at the crease often buys his team a little more time or helps avoid a total collapse.
Conclusion: Siraj’s Fighting Spirit
While Mohammed Siraj’s last six Test innings with the bat may not boast high numbers, they are a reflection of his gritty approach and willingness to contribute where needed. As a lower-order batsman, he faces some of the toughest bowlers, often in difficult match situations. His ability to stand his ground, however brief, can be crucial in adding those last few runs to India’s total or in supporting the key batsmen. His main strength, of course, remains his bowling, where he continues to shine as one of India’s premier pacers.