Mohammed Siraj joins the ‘100 Test Wickets Club’, ends Border-Gavaskar Trophy on a high note

Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj etched his name in the record books by joining the elite 100 Test wickets club during the final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). The speedster achieved this milestone on Day 3 of the fifth Test when he dismissed Australia’s Usman Khawaja, becoming the 23rd Indian bowler to reach the landmark.

Siraj’s entry into the 100-wicket club places him alongside Indian stars Ravichandran Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, and Ravindra Jadeja, who also achieved the milestone during the ongoing World Test Championship cycle.

Despite his personal achievement, Siraj’s performance in the final Test was a mixed bag. With regular captain Jasprit Bumrah sidelined due to injury, Siraj led India’s bowling attack alongside Prasidh Krishna. Expectations were high as he took the new ball with a shining kookaburra in hand, but he struggled to find his rhythm early on.

In the opening over of Australia’s second innings, Siraj conceded 13 runs, failing to hit the right line and length. The pressure mounted on the Indian bowlers, making it difficult for the visitors to save the match and the series.

However, Siraj showcased his brilliance in Australia’s first innings, picking up a crucial three-wicket haul while conceding 51 runs in his 16-over spell. His fiery bowling helped India contain Australia to a manageable total, keeping the game alive.

In the second innings, Siraj managed only one wicket, conceding 69 runs in 12 overs. His dismissal of Khawaja, however, was a memorable moment as it marked his entry into the 100 Test wickets club.

Siraj wrapped up the five-Test series as India’s fourth-highest wicket-taker, claiming 20 scalps at an average of 31.15 and an economy rate of 3.96. His consistent performances with the ball made him a key player for India throughout the series, despite the team’s overall struggles.

In total, Siraj has now played 36 Tests, taking 100 wickets at an average of 30.74 and an economy of 3.47. His rise in the Test arena has been swift, and his aggression and accuracy have made him a crucial part of India’s pace attack.

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy ended in disappointment for India, with Australia reclaiming the title after a decade. The six-wicket defeat at the SCG sealed a 3-1 series victory for Australia and dashed India’s hopes of reaching a third consecutive World Test Championship (WTC) final.

India’s chances of a comeback were dented further by their inconsistent performances throughout the series. The loss of key players, including Bumrah, and lack of impactful contributions from the top order made it difficult for the team to challenge Australia’s dominance.

With their victory in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Australia secured a spot in the WTC final, where they will face South Africa at Lord’s on June 11. The Baggy Greens will aim to defend their WTC mace at the iconic venue.