A Sudden Call That Changed Everything
Siraj had already informed friends about his travel plans to Germany and Spain, with a Real Madrid match on his itinerary. Having recently completed domestic duties with Hyderabad in the Ranji Trophy, he believed his international commitments were on pause.
That assumption changed abruptly when the Indian team management reached out following an injury to Harshit Rana. Initially stunned, Siraj soon found himself boarding a flight to Mumbai, joining the squad at short notice and mentally preparing for the biggest stage in cricket.
Thrown Straight Into the XI
With senior spearhead Jasprit Bumrah unavailable, India needed someone to step up with the new ball. Siraj was handed that responsibility despite not having played a T20 international for over 18 months.
Far from showing rust, he hit his rhythm immediately. Drawing on nearly a decade of international experience, Siraj focused on discipline and consistency rather than experimentation.
A Spell That Defined the Match
Defending a modest total of 161, India needed early breakthroughs. Siraj delivered exactly that. In his opening overs, he dismantled the USA’s top order, reducing them to 13 for three and tilting the contest firmly in India’s favour.
His final figures of three wickets for 29 runs told only part of the story. Two of those dismissals came in the powerplay, when momentum is most critical, while the third arrived on the final ball of the match to seal the win.
Experience Over Absence
Siraj later admitted he had reconciled himself to missing the World Cup campaign altogether. Yet, when opportunity knocked, his familiarity with international cricket ensured a smooth transition back into the side.
He stuck to the same lines and lengths that had brought him success in domestic cricket, exploiting conditions that favoured seam movement and disciplined bowling.
Perfect Support from Arshdeep Singh
Siraj was quick to credit his new-ball partner Arshdeep Singh for maintaining relentless pressure. Together, the duo bowled all six powerplay overs, choking the opposition’s scoring options.
Arshdeep finished with impressive figures of two for 18, complementing Siraj’s attacking bursts and ensuring India never lost control of the chase.
A Story of Destiny and Readiness
For Siraj, the night was about faith, preparation, and seizing the moment. His calm approach reflected a bowler who understood his role and trusted his process.
In a World Cup often defined by fine margins, Siraj’s sudden inclusion and immediate impact will be remembered as one of India’s most compelling stories of resilience and readiness.
