Dinesh Karthik Asks Mohammed Siraj Why He Does Better Without Jasprit Bumrah, Gets Unfiltered Reply
Mohammed Siraj has once again showed that he becomes a much-improved bowler in Jasprit Bumrah's absence. Here's the reason why...
- NDTV Sports Desk
- Updated: August 03, 2025 12:30 pm IST
- Mohammed Siraj once again proved that he is a better bowler when Jasprit isn't in the team
- Ex India cricketer Dinesh Karthik asked Siraj about the difference in his bowling when Bumrah isn't around
- Siraj credited his improved performance to enjoying extra responsibility
No Jasprit Bumrah, no problem as Mohammed Siraj stepped up again for India, delivering crucial blows in the 5th Test against England at the Oval. After picking up 4 wickets in the first innings, Siraj gave the team its only breakthrough of the second innings by dismissing England opener Zak Crawley with a stunning yorker. Not just the 5th Test, Siraj was on song even in the second match of the series, which Bumrah had missed. As former India cricketer Dinesh Karthik spoke to Siraj ahead of the start of play on Day 3, the pacer was asked about the reason behind his improved performances in the absence of Bumrah.
"Look at how India has played with Bumrah and without Bumrah. When Bumrah hasn't been there, you've stood up. Responsibility and the fact that you have delivered as a player. What changes? Is it because you get better overs, you get a chance to bowl at tailenders? Your numbers are better. But what is it you think when Bumrah is not around?" Dinesh Karthik asked Siraj during a chat on Sky Cricket.
Siraj, a player who wears his heart on the sleeve, didn't beat around the bush and said that it's the 'extra responsibility' that tends to get the best out of him.
"I think I love responsibility. I am missing Jassi bhai because he is a senior bowler. You always feel good when you are given the extra responsibility. I like it and I enjoy it. I don't take much pressure. I just like to follow my simple plans," said Siraj.
"I love to play for the country"
— Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) August 2, 2025
Mohammed Siraj speaks about DK what it takes for a fast bowler to last five Test matches pic.twitter.com/uxawWiwGr7
With the 5th Test between India and England possibly seeing a winner on Day 4, Siraj will be crucial to the team's plans of making it 2-2. England, with 9 wickets in hand, need to score 324 more runs to make it 3-1.