IND vs ENG: Mohammed Siraj Completes 200 International Wickets in 5th Test vs England

Mohammed Siraj added another feather to his cap during Day 2 of the fifth and final Test between India and England at The Oval.

The Indian pacer claimed his 200th international wicket, reaching the landmark in style by dismissing England captain Ollie Pope for 22.

Siraj, who has been one of India’s most reliable bowlers in recent years, also removed Joe Root and Jacob Bethell in England’s first innings.

Siraj Reaches 200-International-Wicket Mark

Since making his debut in 2017, Siraj has played 101 international matches and now has 200 wickets to his name at an average of 29.12.

The seamer has five five-wicket hauls across formats and continues to impress with his ability to take wickets in crucial situations.

While he had a tough outing in the fourth Test at Manchester, where he conceded 140 runs for just one wicket in 30 overs, Siraj bounced back strongly in the Oval Test, the final match of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.

Strong Record in England

England has been a happy hunting ground for Siraj. In 11 Tests played in the country, he has picked up 38 wickets, including a six-wicket haul in the second Test at Edgbaston.

At The Oval, too, Siraj has delivered in the past, most notably during the World Test Championship final against Australia, where he picked up five wickets across both innings.

He now joins an elite list of Indian greats, becoming only the third Indian after Kapil Dev and Vinoo Mankad to feature in all five Tests on an overseas tour three times and take 10 or more wickets each time.

With Jasprit Bumrah not in full rhythm and rested for some matches, Siraj’s role becomes even more important. His return to form in the final Test could be crucial if India hopes to level the series at 2-2.