Mohammed Siraj’s deadly spell did not happen out of the blue

By K.R. Nayar

Mohammed Siraj set numerous records during his spell of 6 for 21 in the final of the Asia Cup that gave India a thumping ten-wicket win. The list of records he established is extensive, starting with his remarkable achievement of taking five wickets in just 16 balls, making it the fastest in One Day International history, among many others.

 

Mohammed Siraj while destroying Sri Lanka's batting. Photo: ACC 

It may seem like it was just his day, but such outstanding performances don't occur by accident; they are the result of years of hard work and unwavering determination. Keep in mind that he bowled out Sri Lanka, a team that was once a World Cup winner and a Test-playing nation, for a mere 50 runs.

 

This write-up isn't about how he got the ball to swing and dismissed Sri Lanka for such a low score, especially in a final match. His spell was so impactful that it led to the final match lasting only 126 balls, making it the third shortest completed match in men's One Day International history.

 

Team India celebrates lifting the Asia Cup following Mohammed Siraj's spell.

If Siraj hadn't trained tirelessly to develop such a deadly ability, this remarkable feat would not have been possible. To achieve this, one must cultivate a mindset to destroy any batting line up. 

Siraj is someone who has had to battle harder than many others to make a mark in Indian cricket. The fact that he is the son of an autorickshaw (three wheeler) driver is frequently highlighted because very few individuals from such humble backgrounds manage to reach the Indian team. His father operated one of the slowest modes of transportation in India, but his son went on to become one of the fastest Indian bowlers. One can only imagine how gratifying this must have been for his father. All of this happened because of Siraj's unwavering determination.

 

To rise from such a background, Siraj first needed to believe in himself. Not only did he accomplish that, but he also consistently shattered all odds. When one continuously manages to overcome obstacles on the path to success, it becomes a habit, and for individuals like Siraj, nothing is impossible. Regrettably, the entire Sri Lankan team happened to be one of his victims, and that too in a final match.

 

Have you observed how he celebrates his wickets by spreading his arms, giving the impression that he's about to take flight? It also suggests that he may soar to more success.  He is a thinking bowler and is one who loves to enjoy what he does in life. He thinks not about cricket alone but beyond.

 

Mohammed Siraj... flying high 

One notable example is what he did after receiving the player of the match award in the final for his exceptional spell. He generously donated the entire cash prize of $5000 to the ground staff who had worked tirelessly during the rain-soaked match, enabling him to have a platform to perform. Few individuals can display such generosity when success smiles upon them.

 

During Eid, after his father had passed away, he once remarked: "When parents are around, every day feels like Eid, and when they are no longer with us, even Eid doesn't bring the same happiness. Miss you, Papa." This tells us that beneath his destructive skill on the field, there beats a soft heart as well.

 

The term "Sir" is often affixed as a mark of respect. After this remarkable spell, it would be fitting to address him with a pause – Sir Raj.