NEW DELHI: All set to feature in maiden ODI at his house ground in Hyderabad against New Zealand on Wednesday, Mohammed Siraj got praise from his skipper Rohit Sharma, who is extremely impressed with pacers enormous improvement in the last couple of years.
In the lack of Jasprit Bumrah, an enhanced Siraj stepped up and played a pivotal role in Indias house ODI series win against Sri Lanka.
Getting nine wickets in three matches, Siraj was the highest wicket-taker in the series and balanced an impressive 10.22.
Rohit, ahead of the series opener against the Kiwis, raved about Siraj specifying that the 28-year-old was the standout performer versus Sri Lanka.The skipper mentioned that Siraj needs to be taken care of and will be essential for the group in the upcoming Test series against Australia and the ODI World Cup in the house in October-November later this year.
He is an extremely essential player for us.
He has improved his line and length a lot in the last 2 years.
Now we are getting to see his outswing.
He was not understood for his swing however he did that against Sri Lanka.
That is excellent for the group if he can do that with the brand-new ball consistently, Rohit stated.
He comprehends his bowling a lot much better now which is a huge thing in my view.
He also understands what the team desires from him.
All in all, he has become a very good bowler for us.
He can take wickets in all stages and we require bowlers like him.
We need to manage him and keep him fresh for the World Cup too upcoming Tests versus Australia, the skipper added.Siraj will become part of the ODI series against New Zealand however has actually been rested for the T20Is versus the Kiwis as the Australia 4-Test series will get underway shortly after that from February 9.