Watch: Michael Atherton compares Mohammed Siraj to ex-England seamer who took 467 wickets | Cricket News
Mohammed Siraj’s passion and fire have stood out all series, and on Friday at The Oval, he once again rose to the occasion with a stirring four-wicket haul that helped India claw back into the fifth and final Test.His efforts drew praise from former England captain Michael Atherton, who said Siraj is “the type of cricketer that makes others raise their game”. Atherton compared him to Darren Gough, saying, “When the going gets tough, there are some characters that grow a bit taller. He is one of them.” Siraj claimed 4 for 86 as England were bowled out for 247, just 23 runs ahead of India’s first-innings total of 224. Partnering with Prasidh Krishna, who also picked up four wickets, Siraj helped turn the tide after England were cruising at 129 for 1. India ended Day 2 on 75 for 2, building a 52-run lead with Yashasvi Jaiswal unbeaten on 51 despite being dropped twice. His quickfire half-century included a six over the slips off Jamie Overton, showcasing the kind of intent India have displayed all series.
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Earlier in the day, Crawley and Duckett blasted a 92-run opening stand in just 13 overs. But Siraj and Krishna struck back. Akash Deep also chipped in with the wicket of Duckett, despite being told mid-innings, “You can’t get me out.” With England one bowler short due to Chris Woakes’ injury, India will feel they have an opportunity to take control on Day 3.
