Kolkata, Nov 11: India pacer Mohammed Siraj is brimming with confidence ahead of the two-Test series against South Africa, starting November 14 at Kolkata’s Eden Gardens.
The Hyderabad speedster, who has been in red-hot form over the past year, said he is eager to make full use of the opportunity in what promises to be a high-stakes contest in the new WTC cycle.
With Jasprit Bumrah set to share the new ball, Siraj will spearhead India’s attack against the defending WTC champions. Currently the leading wicket-taker in the 2025–27 cycle, the 31-year-old sees the series as both a challenge and an opportunity. “This series is important for us because South Africa are the defending champions. They drew 1-1 with Pakistan recently, but we’re confident about our rhythm after strong performances in England and against the West Indies. Personally, I’m bowling with good rhythm and want to make the most of this form,” Siraj told JioStar.Siraj’s consistency has been the cornerstone of India’s recent success in red-ball cricket. He was the standout bowler in the two-Test series in the West Indies, claiming 10 wickets at a remarkable average of 13. Earlier, in the home series against England, he finished as the top wicket-taker with 23 scalps — including two five-wicket hauls — while sending down more than 1,100 deliveries, the most by any bowler in that series.Under Shubman Gill’s captaincy, India have begun the WTC 2025–27 cycle impressively, winning four of their seven Tests. With a points percentage of 61.90, they currently sit third in the standings and will look to climb further with a strong showing against the Proteas.South Africa, led by Temba Bavuma, enter the series following a commendable 1-1 draw in Pakistan, but India will begin as clear favourites on home soil. (PTI)
