RP Singh Advocates for Mohammed Siraj's Workload Management

New Delhi, Aug 6 (PTI) - Renowned former Indian fast bowler RP Singh has emphasized the significance of managing Mohammed Siraj's workload to keep him injury-free, placing him in the same esteemed category as premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah. Siraj demonstrated his skills in the recently concluded five-match Test series in England, finishing as the highest wicket-taker with 23 wickets while bowling 185.3 overs. This made him the most utilized bowler of the series.

The 31-year-old Hyderabad pacer played a pivotal role in India's six-run victory in the fifth Test, claiming nine wickets, including a five-wicket haul in the second innings, to help India level the series 2-2. RP Singh expressed the necessity of workload management to safeguard Siraj against potential injuries in the future.

"Fast bowlers are at a higher risk of injury when they play too many matches in a short time. His workload should be managed just like we did with Bumrah," Singh mentioned during an interview with PTI-Bhasha. Using Jasprit Bumrah as an example, Singh added that smart workload management allowed Bumrah to excel in both the ODI and T20 World Cups.

"Siraj is in the same league. To protect him from injuries, we need to seriously focus on his workload, sooner or later," Singh remarked, acknowledging Siraj's remarkable performance throughout the England tour.

Singh noted that Siraj was the only bowler to play all five Tests with full energy and intensity every time he stepped on the field. Siraj delivered a noteworthy 143 kmph yorker to dismiss Gus Atkinson, which was among his top five fastest deliveries in the series.

"This shows that he never lacked effort. He focused on bowling with the right line and length and contributed beyond expectations for the team," Singh added, praising Siraj's fitness and rhythm throughout the series.

Although Siraj had largely bowled under Bumrah's leadership before, he established his own identity during the series in England. Singh highlighted the importance of bowling partnerships, mentioning that even Bumrah's triumphs are aided by Siraj's presence.

"Just like batsmen need partnerships, bowlers also prefer bowling in pairs. Bumrah tends to take more wickets, and his unique action troubles batters more," the former left-arm bowler said. He further explained that Siraj's role is to build pressure from his end effectively, making their partnership special and successful.

On the topic of Bumrah featuring in only three matches during the England tour because of workload management strategies, Singh explained that it was a premeditated decision. He lauded Bumrah for being a reliable wicket-taker and mentioned the expectations captains have from him for crucial breakthroughs.

Singh also commended skipper Shubman Gill, who excelled with 754 runs in the series and showed remarkable leadership qualities as India came back to level the series 2-2. He noted that a performing captain positively influences decision-making.

The series showcased not only skill but also grit, with players like Rishabh Pant and Chris Woakes batting through significant injuries to save matches. Singh advocated for allowing like-for-like injury replacements, suggesting the presence of a neutral doctor or physio to evaluate players' injuries and decisions regarding suitable replacements.

Kuldeep Yadav and Arshdeep Singh's absence from the Tests was attributed to the team management's strategy of bolstering batting depth with all-rounders. Singh explained that the team had prioritized batting over bowling strength, although he believed Kuldeep could have been effective on certain pitches. He suggested that missed opportunities may arise again in the future.

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