Siraj’s Stunning Turnaround: From Torrid Start to Match-Winning Spell

Mohammed Siraj’s performance on Day 1 of India’s Test against South Africa at Eden Gardens in Kolkata epitomized the unpredictability of cricket. The right-arm pacer began poorly, conceding 25 runs across 3 overs without a breakthrough, but transformed the match’s momentum with a single request to his captain.

The Turning Point

After a difficult initial spell, Siraj continued struggling in his third spell as South Africa built pressure. Recognizing his potential and needing breakthroughs, Siraj approached captain Shubman Gill with a simple plea: “Bas ek over de de” (Please give me one more over). Gill obliged, and the decision proved transformative. In that crucial over, Siraj struck decisively, trapping keeper Verreynne leg-before-wicket for 16 runs, then breaching Marco Jansen’s defense with a sharp in-ducker on the fourth ball.

A Complete Team Effort

Siraj’s redemption story complemented an outstanding performance by Jasprit Bumrah, who claimed a magnificent 5/27—his 16th five-wicket haul. Together, the bowling attack restricted South Africa to just 159 runs. Post-match, Siraj credited Bumrah’s guidance and revealed that bowling from different ends yielded contrasting conditions: the older ball kept low, while the new ball came onto the bat nicely. By attacking the stumps and building pressure, he exploited favorable conditions to devastating effect.

India’s reply saw them lose Yashasvi Jaiswal early for 12, but opening partner KL Rahul and debutant Washington Sundar stabilized the innings, reaching stumps at 37/1 after one day—a strong position in the contest.