Mohammed Siraj Embraces Hyderabad Captaincy with Pride
INDORE: Mohammed Siraj may have missed selection for the upcoming T20 World Cup, but the fast bowler has plenty to celebrate. The 31-year-old recently received the honor of captaining the Hyderabad Ranji Trophy team. Speaking at the Holkar Stadium on Saturday, just before the third ODI against New Zealand, Siraj expressed his delight about this new responsibility.
A Dream Come True for the Pacer
When questioned about his appointment as Hyderabad captain, Siraj broke into his characteristic wide smile. He called it a great honor. "As a player, representing your state is a dream," Siraj stated. "Leading it is an even bigger dream." He confirmed prior captaincy experience in the Hyderabad League, viewing this Ranji Trophy role as a good opportunity he intends to enjoy fully.
Focus on Bowling and Building Pressure
The conversation shifted to bowling strategies, particularly with fellow pacer Arshdeep Singh on a small ground with a flat pitch. Siraj skillfully deflected the tactical question. Instead, he praised the performances of junior bowler Harshit Rana. "Harshit has bowled very well," Siraj noted, highlighting Rana's wicket-taking ability with the new ball.
He emphasized that bowling decisions ultimately rest with the captain and coach. From his perspective, Siraj explained his primary goal is to maintain pressure. "My thinking is simple," he said. "If the opposition is under pressure and wickets are falling, I want to build pressure from my end. I don't want to leak runs. I aim to bowl in one area and create pressure to force the next wicket."
Looking Ahead to the 2027 World Cup
Siraj also shared insights into the Indian team management's long-term vision. He suggested the current phase involves building a squad for the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa. Giving confidence and exposure to more players appears to be a key strategy.
"Arshdeep also performed very well against South Africa," Siraj recalled. "If someone else gets an opportunity now, that is also good. Looking ahead to the World Cup, this process gives confidence and exposure to more players. It is important for the future."
Clarification on South Africa Series Absence
Addressing his omission from the recent home ODI series against South Africa, Siraj provided a clear explanation. He stated he was "rested" and not dropped from the squad. The reason was a heavy workload from bowling nearly 40 overs in a five-day Test match.
"Rest is crucial for a fast bowler," Siraj emphasized. "The workload increases significantly. You need proper rest to refuel. Then you can come back focusing on your rhythm and bowling." This clarification puts to rest any speculation about his form or place in the national setup.
Despite the T20 World Cup disappointment, Mohammed Siraj remains a vital cog in Indian cricket. His new leadership role with Hyderabad and his mature outlook on team strategy highlight his growing stature in the game.
