Hyderabad, Aug 6 (PTI): India pacer Mohammed Siraj received a hero's welcome in his hometown Hyderabad following his impressive performance in the recently concluded drawn Test series against England. Enthusiastic fans gathered to greet Siraj upon his return.
Siraj emerged as the leading wicket-taker in the five-match series. Playing all five games, he bowled an extensive 185.3 overs.
The 31-year-old pacer, accompanied by the team's fielding coach T Dilip, first arrived at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport from London. Dressed in stylish black casuals, Siraj was received by a small group of fans who eagerly awaited him.
While fans requested selfies and autographs, Siraj quickly made his way into a car to catch a connecting flight to Hyderabad. On reaching Hyderabad, he was once again warmly welcomed by adoring supporters.
"We haven't spoken to him yet, but we certainly plan to felicitate him during his stay in the city," a Hyderabad Cricket Association official told PTI. "It’s a matter of pride that he performed so well for the country against England."
Siraj's most notable contribution came during the fifth day of the final Test at the Oval. His exceptional effort helped India dismiss England for 367, defending a target of 374 runs.
He claimed five wickets in that innings, completing a nine-wicket match-haul. This six-run victory, marking the narrowest margin in India’s Test history, secured India a commendable 2-2 draw in the series.
India's skipper, Shubman Gill, expressed his delight over Siraj's performance, especially in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, who was rested as part of a pre-decided workload management plan.
"He (Siraj) is a captain's dream. Every time he bowled, he gave his all for the team," Gill remarked after the fifth Test.
Siraj himself remained optimistic about victory on the final day at the Oval, confident of defending the remaining 35 runs.
"I always believe I can win the game from any position, and today was no different," Siraj commented.
(Only the headline of this report may have been reworked by Editorji; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)