Mohammed Siraj has achieved a career-best ICC Test bowling ranking, entering the top 15 for the first time following his sensational performance in India’s dramatic six-run win over England at The Oval. His nine-wicket haul in the match not only sealed the series-leveling victory but also established him as a frontline pacer in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah.
The Oval Test was a true examination of India’s depth, and Siraj rose to the occasion with precision and grit. With England needing only 85 runs and three wickets in hand on the final morning, Siraj delivered a stunning spell, dismissing Gus Atkinson and James Anderson to end the match in India’s favour. His figures of 5/77 in the second innings were instrumental in breaking England’s lower-order resistance.
This performance capped off a brilliant series for Siraj, who finished as the highest wicket-taker with 23 wickets in five Tests. The consistency and composure he displayed throughout the tour have been rewarded with a massive leap in the ICC rankings—climbing 12 spots to reach the 15th position, his highest ever.
Siraj now joins Jasprit Bumrah (ranked No. 1) as the second Indian pacer in the top 15, solidifying India’s status as one of the world’s premier fast-bowling units in Test cricket. This rise is not just statistical; it marks Siraj’s transformation from a supporting act into a dependable strike bowler capable of turning matches.
Adding to the pace firepower was Prasidh Krishna, who also impressed with eight wickets in the match and jumped 25 places in the rankings. The Siraj-Krishna duo became only the second Indian fast-bowling pair in history to take four or more wickets each in both innings of a Test match—a rare feat previously achieved by Bedi and Prasanna in 1969 (as spinners).
Siraj’s progress has been particularly satisfying for Indian fans, given his journey. From being criticized during the IPL to leading the attack in high-pressure overseas conditions, Siraj has shown remarkable mental strength and work ethic. His ability to swing the ball at pace, maintain consistent lines, and apply pressure in crunch situations makes him a vital asset in the red-ball format.
This ranking surge is also a timely boost for India, with the next Test cycle gearing up and tours to Australia and the West Indies on the horizon. Siraj’s rise reflects not just personal achievement but the larger depth and resilience of Indian cricket’s fast-bowling reserves.
As India transitions into a new era with younger leaders and evolving combinations, Siraj’s elevation into the ICC top 15 reinforces one fact clearly: this team doesn’t rely on reputations alone—it thrives on performance. And Mohammed Siraj, with his latest feat, has officially stamped himself as one of the world’s elite Test bowlers.