Indian fast bowler Mohammed Siraj claimed six wickets on Day 3 of the second Test match against England, including his fourth five-wicket haul in Test cricket, after England’s Harry Brook and Jamie Smith put up a 300-run partnership. During Siraj’s post-match interview with BCCI, fellow squad member Arshdeep Singh interjected with a playful comment about Siraj’s famous dialogue needing an update. Arshdeep Singh interrupted the interview with a lighthearted remark, suggesting a modification to Siraj’s well-known statement. “Brother, there is a dialogue change. I only believe in myself and Jassi bhai,” Arshdeep Singh said at the beginning of the interview. The Indian bowling attack saw the emergence of Akash Deep, who supported Siraj effectively in India’s first bowling innings. Akash Deep secured four wickets but fell short of achieving his maiden five-wicket haul by one wicket. Siraj revealed his willingness to help his bowling partner achieve the milestone. “Akash Deep was waiting for his opportunity, and he showed his hunger today. I really enjoyed bowling with him. I enjoy responsibility and it is good that I did well today,” Siraj said. In a display of camaraderie, Siraj disclosed his attempt to assist Akash Deep in reaching the five-wicket milestone. “I would have loved if Akash Deep would have taken a five-wicket haul today. Your first 5-wicket haul is special. I told him that I would bowl 4 balls away from the stump to give him the best chance at taking 5, but he said no,” Siraj explained.
The match situation at the end of Day 3 saw India in a commanding position with a lead of 244 runs. KL Rahul and Karun Nair remained at the crease, looking to navigate through the morning session without losing wickets.
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Will Akash Deep achieve his maiden five-wicket haul in the next Test?
England’s approach to the final innings has been made clear, as they intend to pursue any target set by India. The Indian team aims to establish a competitive score that would keep England engaged in the chase during the final phase of play. The partnership between Brook and Smith proved significant for England, as they accumulated 300 runs together before Siraj’s intervention brought India back into the contest. Siraj’s six-wicket haul demonstrated his crucial role in India’s bowling attack.Quiz: Who’s that IPL player? Akash Deep’s performance in his bowling spell showcased his potential and readiness to contribute at the Test level. His four-wicket haul, though falling short of the five-wicket mark, indicated his capabilities in the longest format of the game. The day’s play highlighted the competitive nature of the Test match, with both teams showing determination. India’s position at the end of Day 3, with a substantial lead and wickets in hand, sets up an intriguing conclusion to the match. The interaction between Siraj and Arshdeep Singh during the interview reflected the positive atmosphere within the Indian team. Their exchange, coupled with Siraj’s willingness to help Akash Deep achieve a milestone, demonstrated the team’s supportive environment.
