Oval: In a moment of poetic justice, Mohammed Siraj, often seen in the shadows of Jasprit Bumrah, stepped into the limelight and led India’s charge at The Oval with a fiery spell that silenced critics and electrified fans across the world. As England’s innings crumbled in the fifth Test, Siraj’s dominance turned into a viral celebration online with fans cheering, “Jassi Bhai is not there, no problem! Siraj Bhai is enough.”
Siraj, who took four crucial wickets in England’s second innings, finished the spell with raw pace, reverse swing, and relentless aggression traits once solely attributed to India’s pace spearhead Bumrah. Social media erupted in praise, hailing Siraj as India's “DSP” a title fans lovingly coined for his on-field swagger and intensity.
This performance was particularly special for Siraj, who until now has been seen as the support act to Bumrah’s main role. His previous statement after the T20 World Cup final “I only trust Jassi Bhai because he is a game changer” echoed in memory, but today fans say it with a twist: “When Jassi Bhai is not there, I trust Siraj Bhai.”
England had started strong but were soon rattled by India’s pace duo. After early breakthroughs by Prasidh Krishna and Akash Deep, Siraj entered and dismantled England’s middle order, dismissing key batters like Joe Root, Ollie Pope, and Jacob Bethell with precision. With 18 wickets in the series, Siraj now stands as the top wicket-taker a personal milestone and a message to the world: he’s not just a backup bowler anymore.
Though England eked out a 23-run lead, the momentum shifted with Siraj’s spellbinding performance. Fans, experts, and former cricketers took to social media, not just to applaud his skill, but to celebrate his rise as India’s new strike bowler in crunch moments.
With the series in balance and India looking to seal the final Test, Siraj’s evolution from sidekick to match-winner could be the story that defines India’s campaign in England and perhaps, a turning point in his own career.