Siraj Expresses Confidence in Jadeja's Bowling Form
Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj has voiced strong support for spinner Ravindra Jadeja ahead of the crucial third ODI against New Zealand. The series-deciding match takes place on Sunday in Indore. Siraj dismissed any concerns about Jadeja's recent performances, stating the experienced bowler needs just one wicket to regain his best form.
Jadeja's Recent Struggles and Team Support
Ravindra Jadeja has failed to take a wicket in the first two ODIs against New Zealand. He recorded figures of 0 for 44 in the opening match and 0 for 56 in the second encounter. His struggles continued from the previous home series against South Africa, where he managed only one wicket.
Despite these statistics, Siraj emphasized the team's unwavering belief in Jadeja's abilities. "I don't think there is any concern about Jadeja's form," Siraj declared during the pre-match press conference. "It is simply a matter of one wicket. Once he gets that breakthrough, you will see a completely different bowler."
Reflecting on Team Performance and Missed Opportunities
Siraj reflected positively on India's overall performance in the series, which stands level at 1-1. "We played very well in both matches," he said. "Our bowling and batting were strong in the first ODI. In the second game, even after losing early wickets, KL Rahul batted excellently and Nitish Reddy made valuable contributions."
The pacer admitted that missed chances proved costly in the second ODI defeat, particularly against New Zealand's Daryl Mitchell. "We had an opportunity," Siraj explained. "When the catch was dropped, if we had taken that chance, the result might have been different. World-class batters like Mitchell don't give you many opportunities. When they get one, they make you pay."
On Mitchell's consistent success against India, Siraj acknowledged clear plans but highlighted execution issues. "We tried our best to dismiss him and had specific strategies, especially for the middle overs," he added. "Again, it comes down to taking that one crucial opportunity. If we had taken his wicket, the entire scenario would have changed."
Positive Team Environment and Bowling Combinations
Siraj downplayed any pressure within the squad despite the series being tied. "The team environment remains very positive," he stated. "We receive strong input from our senior players. Wins and losses happen in cricket, but the dressing room atmosphere is extremely healthy. This is especially important as we prepare for bigger tournaments ahead."
When asked about potential bowling combinations at the small Indore ground, Siraj backed left-armer Arshdeep Singh while deferring to team management. "Arshdeep has bowled very well and taken wickets with the new ball," Siraj noted. "The captain and coach ultimately decide roles. As a fellow bowler, if someone is taking wickets at the other end, my job is to build pressure and contain runs. I have full confidence in his abilities."
He also praised Harshit Rana's impact in recent matches. "Harshit has performed well too, taking wickets early on," Siraj said. "It's good for him that he's getting opportunities before major tournaments like the World Cup."
Personal Reflections and Match Strategy
On his own exclusion from the T20 World Cup squad, Siraj expressed acceptance. "I would have loved to play," he admitted. "But workload management could be the reason behind the decision."
Looking ahead to the Holkar Stadium pitch, which traditionally favors batsmen, Siraj outlined a simple plan. "It's a small ground and usually produces high scores," he explained. "As a bowler, if you bowl stump to stump, you always have options like LBW or bowled. Even if you miss slightly, there's still a chance for a wicket."
The stage is set for an exciting conclusion to the ODI series between India and New Zealand this Sunday.
