Gill Clarifies Siraj's Form Concerns, Cites Lack of Match Rhythm
India captain Shubman Gill has dismissed injury concerns surrounding fast bowler Mohammed Siraj, attributing his subdued performance in the Sri Lanka Test series to a lack of match rhythm. Siraj returned to international cricket after a two-month layoff, managing only four wickets in four innings.
Colombo, Sri Lanka – Following India's 1-0 Test series victory over Sri Lanka, captain Shubman Gill addressed growing concerns regarding fast bowler Mohammed Siraj's subdued performance, emphatically stating that Siraj was “not injured.” Gill clarified that the dip in Siraj's form and pace was primarily due to a lack of match rhythm, as the pacer was returning to competitive cricket after an almost two-month layoff.
Throughout the recently concluded two-match Test series, Siraj’s pace was noticeably down, often clocked between 125 and 130 kmph. He was observed using a shorter run-up, and the wicketkeeper occasionally stood up to the stumps. Over four innings, the usually fiery quick managed to secure just four wickets. Speculation intensified after he suffered a heavy landing while attempting a catch in the second Test. Addressing the media, Gill reiterated, "Firstly, Siraj is not injured. He didn't feel well even in the first match... it takes time for someone to come back to the rhythm." He acknowledged that "even in the first Test, we felt that his pace was slow," but expressed confidence in Siraj regaining his optimal form with more game time.
India clinched the series with a victory in the first Test at Galle, though the second Test in Colombo ended in a draw after a resilient Sri Lankan performance denied India a clean sweep. With Jasprit Bumrah sidelined, Siraj was expected to spearhead India’s pace attack, a role he has previously excelled in, including a memorable five-wicket haul in England and a sensational 6/21 against Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup final last year. His less-than-dominant outing in Sri Lanka proved particularly noticeable, impacting India's World Test Championship standing, which currently places them fifth.