Dale Steyn Predicts Big for Siraj in 5th Test
Former South African pace legend Dale Steyn has made a bold prediction for India’s Mohammed Siraj ahead of the fifth and final Test against England in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. With Jasprit Bumrah reportedly ruled out, Steyn believes Siraj will step up in style.
Taking to social media platform X, Steyn confidently stated, “Siraj to take a fifer in the 5th Test,” referring to a five-wicket haul. He recalled Siraj’s previous heroics at Edgbaston during the second Test and hinted that the Indian pacer might repeat a similar performance at The Oval. The series currently stands at 2-1 in England’s favor, making the final Test a must-win for India.
Jasprit Bumrah, India’s lead pacer, has shown signs of fatigue and decline in pace during the drawn fourth Test. With his workload catching up, the team management is likely to rest him, opening the door for Siraj to lead the attack.
Siraj’s Key Role as India Eyes Series Comeback
Siraj has become a consistent presence in India’s Test squad, having played more matches in the format than any other Indian cricketer since 2020. Despite some criticism over his bowling average, his numbers without Bumrah paint a different picture. In 15 Tests without Bumrah, Siraj averages 25.20 with the ball — a clear sign of his ability to lead the pace attack.
India will also hope for support from Akash Deep, who could return from injury, and possibly a debut from left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh. However, all eyes will remain on Siraj, who already has four five-wicket hauls in his career.
The biggest challenge for Siraj now will be to maintain his fitness and intensity through the final leg of this long and demanding tour. As India fights to level the series 2-2, the team’s hopes rest heavily on Siraj delivering when it matters the most.
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