India failed to defend 371 in the fourth innings against England as they were 鈥榖azballed鈥 into losing the series opening Test held at Headingley earlier this week. The frontline Indian pacers, barring Jasprit Bumrah, have been facing the heat following the listless show as they not only failed to pick enough wickets or create pressure from their end but also leaked runs aplenty.
Siraj bowled 41 runs across the two innings, took two wickets and leaked 173 runs (4.2 runs per over). Prasidh Krishna took five wickets in 35 overs but conceded 220 runs in them at an economy of 6.2. On the other hand, Bumrah took five wickets in 43.4 overs and had an economy of just 3.2. There鈥檚 a stark difference.
Former India cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin feels that not getting enough support from his fellow pacers is increasing Bumrah鈥檚 workload.
Siraj, Ashwin suggests, should step up and stem the flow of runs from his end even if that means he doesn鈥檛 take any wickets.
鈥淏umrah is bowling extraordinarily. Prasidh, when he gets it right, bowls unbelievably well. Jadeja will perform his role. My only question is to Siraj: 鈥楥an you just dry up the runs? You don鈥檛 have to pick wickets, but can you not give away 4-5 runs in every over?’鈥 Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.
鈥淚f runs are being leaked, then you have to bring Bumrah back into the attack. How many dams will Bumrah be able to construct? Also, he gets tired, and his spells are pushed and by then, partnerships are forged. Or you鈥檇 have to go with Jadeja, who has to step in to stem the flow of runs,鈥 he added.
Siraj Should Learn From Morkel
Ashwin cited the role of current India bowling coach Morne Morkel who used to keep his end tight during his playing days for South Africa, allowing the likes of Dale Steyn and Vernon Philander to create pressure.
鈥淧rasidh is playing for the first time (in England) and is inexperienced. Siraj has to play the bankable role. Remember how Morne Morkel used to bowl? He used to give 43 runs in 20 overs and take 2 wickets. In Bazball era, you might go for 2/58. That is the role Siraj has to play and if he is effective in it, it would make a huge difference,鈥 Ashwin said.