Ashwin Criticizes Siraj's Profligacy, Questions Run-Stopping Ability in England Test

Ashwin Critiques Siraj's Performance, Urges Focus on Run Control

Ravichandran Ashwin, the veteran Indian spinner, has voiced his concerns regarding Mohammed Siraj's showing in the first Test against England at Headingley. Ashwin suggests that Siraj needs to prioritize controlling the flow of runs rather than solely focusing on taking wickets.

Siraj experienced a challenging match, conceding runs at an economy rate of 4.05 and securing only two wickets across both innings. On a pitch that offered limited assistance to bowlers, Siraj gave away 122 runs in 27 overs in the first innings while claiming two wickets. His struggles persisted in the second innings, where he went wicketless in 14 overs, conceding 51 runs.

Ashwin addressed the issue on his YouTube channel, stating, "My only question to Siraj is... can you dry up the run flow? You don't have to pick up wickets. But can you not give away 4-5 runs every over? If runs are being leaked, then you have to bring Bumrah back into the attack. How many dams will Bumrah be able to construct?"

Jasprit Bumrah was a standout performer for India in England’s first innings, claiming a five-wicket haul. Prasidh Krishna also secured three wickets but proved to be expensive, conceding runs at an economy of 6.40.

Ashwin further elaborated on Siraj's role: "Also, he gets tired, and his spells are pushed, and by then, partnerships are forged. Or you'd have to go with Jadeja, who has to step in and stem the flow of runs. Prasidh is playing for the first time, and he is inexperienced. So Siraj has to play the bankable role. Remember how Morne Morkel used to bowl 2/43 in 20 overs? That should be his role. In Bazball, you could go for 2/58, I guess. Siraj has to play that role, and if he is effective in it, then it would make a huge difference."

The veteran spinner emphasized that Test cricket is not only about individual brilliance but also about playing crucial support roles.

Ashwin added, "I agree that wicket-taking is important in Test cricket. But in Test cricket, you also bowl for one another. Ishant Sharma used to do it wonderfully. He played the Morkel role very well. He would hold the pressure on one end and would have given just 40-odd runs after an entire day's play. Of course, I am not asking Siraj to do the same, but regulate the leakage of runs."