Mohammed Siraj played a defining role in India’s unforgettable triumph at the Oval where his nine wickets including a sensational five-wicket haul in the second innings paved the way for a dramatic six-run win while defending a total of 374. Even after dropping Harry Brook who went on to score a century, Siraj stayed unfazed, bounced back with intensity and proved pivotal in scripting one of India’s greatest Test comebacks. His stellar performance helped India draw the five-match series 2-2 and saw him finish as the leading wicket-taker with 23 dismissals.
Reflecting on Siraj’s explosive presence throughout the series, former England captain Nasser Hussain offered a heartfelt tribute, highlighting the raw energy the Indian pacer brings to the field. According to Nasser Hussain, the England team has affectionately dubbed him “Mr. Angry” for his animated and emotional reactions during play. Yet beyond the theatrics lies a cricketer who consistently captures attention with both his passion and relentless drive. Nasser Hussain described him as someone impossible to ignore, whether he’s dropping to his knees in frustration or unleashing ecstatic celebrations after a breakthrough.
The tribute explored Siraj’s growth as a bowler, noting how he has evolved from a hit-the-deck seam specialist into a more rounded fast bowler capable of delivering wicked outswingers, as demonstrated by his dismissal of Joe Root.
One of the most critical moments of the Oval Test came on the final day when Siraj delivered a perfectly executed yorker to Zac Crawley and then returned with the same weapon under extreme pressure against Gus Atkinson who was on the verge of tying the game with another six. The stakes couldn’t have been higher, one mistake could have lost India the match and the series.
Instead, Siraj held his nerve and sealed the win with remarkable precision, showing the temperament of a true match-winner. Nasser Hussain emphasised that such execution under pressure defined Siraj’s champion character, which had recently come under scrutiny amidst off-field noise.
Even Joe Root, speaking with light-hearted admiration, commented on Siraj’s on-field aggression, playfully referring to it as “fake” while acknowledging the passion behind it. For Nasser Hussain, these animated expressions, whether joyful or despairing, only enhance Siraj’s appeal and reflect the drama that makes Test cricket so special.
As the series came to a dramatic end, Nasser Hussain expressed a deep sense of loss that such a spectacular contest had concluded. He mused on the magic of Test cricket, questioning why its relevance is ever doubted. In his view, anyone witnessing the intensity and entertainment of this series would have no doubts about the format’s enduring power. Siraj, in all his fiery glory, stood at the center of that spectacle, both as a performer and as a symbol of Test cricket’s timeless brilliance.
