Xtra Time Web Desk: Mohammed Siraj bowled one of the best opening spells by an Indian pacer overseas on Day 1 of the second test match against South Africa in Cape Town on Wednesday. He wreaked havoc in the first session as he ran through the Proteas top order. Siraj’s opening spell read 9-3-16-5 as South Africa was bowled out for 55 runs in just 23.2 overs before lunch on Day 1.
The fast bowler from Hyderabad ensured he did not repeat the mistake he committed in the first test at Centurion.
“My mindset was to give a strong performance for the team and correct the shortcomings from the last Test. I realised what mistakes I had made and got it right today, and got the success. My strength is to land the ball in the right areas for a long period of time but I wasn’t able to do that in the last game. Today, I focused on my strengths and got the rewards. So, I’m really happy,” Siraj said to the reporters during the post day’s play press conference.
Siraj, showcased impeccable line and length right from the first ball, wreaking havoc with his nine-over spell with the new ball. He dismissed key batters, including opener Aiden Markram, who edged one to Yashasvi Jaiswal in the slips. Dean Elgar, in his penultimate Test innings, played onto the stumps. Siraj continued his dominance, sending back Tony de Zorzi, David Bedingham, Kyle Verreynne, and Marco Jansen in quick succession, all falling victim to edges behind the wicket.
According to Siraj, the key for getting success on a wicket like Newlands where the ball was doing too much was try and maintain a disciplined line.
“On such pitches when there is so much swing and the pitch is misbehaving, bowlers tend to be greedy and try too many things. I think it’s important to stick to a plan and hit a certain area. If you try too much, you will put yourself and the team under pressure,” Siraj said.
He added, “On this pitch, it’s crucial to have bowling partnerships as sometimes, runs can be leaked while trying to get wickets.”
The test match is precariously poised with India leading by just 36 runs at stumps after Day 1.