ENG vs IND 2025: Bowling Coach Morne Morkel Hails Mohammed Siraj as a Natural Leader

In the current Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, Mohammed Siraj has excelled not only in his bowling abilities but also in his dedication to the badge. The only pacer from India to have participated in all five Test matches is him. Additionally, the 31-year-old participated in all five Test matches of the 2024–2025 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

During the fifth Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy against England at The Oval, bowling coach Morne Morkel was full of praise for Mohammed Siraj, a "natural leader" who is receiving the "recognition" while leading India's pace attack in Jasprit Bumrah's absence and "enjoying" the extra responsibility. 'Miyaan Magic' will be the center of attention as the weather gods stepped in and pushed the thrilling competition to the last day. Siraj's scorching spells will undoubtedly impact the match's outcome, as India is four wickets away from tying the series and England is 35 runs short of a 3-1 victory.

Bowling Coach Morne Morkel Gets Candid:

Morkel told the reporters, "Yeah, I said it earlier in the Test series, I'm very happy for Siraj that he's getting the recognition. You know, he's a guy that in the changing room will always, you know, he'll lead the way. And I think he's a natural leader, although, you know, vocally, he doesn't speak a lot. I think he leads a lot of actions. And this series so far, he's done it with the ball at times that, you know, we've needed somebody to put his hand up and create something."

He further added, "Even if it was, you know, bowling extra two overs, three overs or creating, you know, an opportunity for us. He's been that guy. So, you know, he's put in the effort, and it's just nice to see the rewards. And, you know, today, again, at the back end, stepping up, you know, getting the support behind the team to lift us in the crucial moments. It's those sorts of smart plays that you need. And, you know, for me, Siraj has just been outstanding."

According to former South African sprinter Morkel, Siraj's incredible dedication gives his teammates even more inspiration. Siraj has taken 20 wickets at an average of 36.85 in five games, making him the top wicket-taker in the 2025 Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. But with just 35 runs left in the Oval Test, India needs four wickets to win, so he needs to put in one last effort on the last day of the series.

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