Mohammed Siraj (Image credit: Sahil Malhotra/TimesofIndia.com)
TimesofIndia.com in Manchester: Who will feature in the fourth Test? Jasprit Bumrah? Akash Deep? And who else? India fast bowler Mohammed Siraj offered clarity ahead of the fourth Test against England, set to begin on Wednesday at Old Trafford in Manchester. India currently trail the five-match Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 1-2 after three Tests.Speaking to reporters on the eve of the crucial match, Siraj confirmed Bumrah’s availability and shared an update on Akash Deep’s fitness.“Jassi bhai to khelenge (Jasprit Bumrah will play). Akash Deep has a groin issue, he bowled today and now physios will see. Combination is changing but we need to bowl in good areas. Plan is simple — stick to good areas,” Siraj told reporters.Bumrah featured in the first Test, was rested for the second due to workload management, and returned for the third. Akash Deep, meanwhile, missed the opener but played the second and third Tests. Siraj has been a constant presence, playing all three matches so far.With 13 wickets in 3 Tests, Siraj has been one of India’s standout performers with the ball and will be eager to continue his impressive run in the fourth Test.When asked about managing his workload, Siraj responded:“Upar waale ne mujhe sehatmand rakha hai (God has kept me in good health). I want to make opportunities count and play as many games possible for the country.”Siraj also praised England captain Ben Stokes for his determination and endurance during the third Test.“When Ben Stokes bowled two spells of ten overs each … hats off to him,” he said.India came close to pulling off a win at Lord’s in the third Test but fell short by 22 runs while chasing 193.Siraj showed great resolve with the bat too, surviving 29 deliveries before being dismissed by Shoaib Bashir.“I was confident, didn’t feel I will get out. I got out after middling the ball. It could have been a different result,” he said.“I am very emotional. It could have been 2-1. Jaddu bhai ne itna fight kiya. But then I said to myself that series is not over and I will work on my batting. We kept working hard on our batting since Australia. 22 runs defeat was heartbreaking,” Siraj said.
