Siraj Under Fire After India's First Test Loss to England; Kaif Criticizes Bowling Strategy

Siraj Faces Scrutiny After India's Test Defeat Against England

Mohammed Siraj of India (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)

Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif has voiced his concerns regarding Mohammed Siraj's bowling performance following India's five-wicket loss to England in the first Test at Leeds.

Despite the Headingley pitch offering minimal assistance to bowlers, Jasprit Bumrah managed to secure a five-wicket haul in the first innings. Prasidh Krishna and Mohammed Siraj claimed three and two wickets respectively, although both conceded runs at high economy rates of 6.40 and 4.50.

The Indian bowling performance declined further in the second innings. England openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett formed a substantial 188-run partnership while chasing a target of 371 runs. England successfully achieved the target with five wickets remaining.

Krishna and Shardul Thakur each took two wickets, while Ravindra Jadeja claimed one. Both Bumrah and Siraj went wicketless despite bowling 19 and 14 overs respectively. Siraj's total wicket tally for the match was two from 41 overs.

"People say Mohammed Siraj tried very hard, bowls with his heart. Sir, don't bowl with your heart, bowl with your mind and with line and length where we can get wickets," said Kaif on his YouTube channel.

"Why didn't Bumrah take wickets in the second innings? It's because the batters played defensively. They attacked Krishna, Shardul, and Siraj. Gameplan becomes very easy when you know Bumrah will bowl 4-5 overs, play him well," Kaif said.

"In the same bowling lineup, you give him (Gill) Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, and Bumrah. I guarantee you Gill will win this Test series. Those are the bowlers who know how to take 20 wickets," Kaif concluded.