Ashwin Urges Gambhir & Gill to Recognise Mohammed Siraj as Potential No 1 Bowler
Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has made a compelling case: he believes that Gautam Gambhir and captain Shubman Gill must properly support Mohammed Siraj, whom he calls a “potential No 1 bowler”. Ashwin stressed that Indian cricket “failed to recognise Mohammed Siraj” in time, despite him being one of the most successful overseas pacers in recent history.
Recognise Mohammed Siraj R Ashwin Urges Gambhir Shubman Gill to Look After Potential No 1 Bowler
Ashwin bluntly stated:
“We failed to recognise Mohammed Siraj. Now Gambhir and Shubman Gill must look after this potential No 1 bowler.”
Behind this bold assertion is a history: Siraj has taken 109 Test wickets at an average of about 30, many in critical overseas Tests. Yet senior management often overlooked him or limited his white‑ball exposure, according to Ashwin.
Key Reasons Why Ashwin Believes: Siraj as India’s Future No 1 Seamer
1. Outstanding Overseas Record
- Crucial spells in Australia, South Africa, and England establish Siraj as India’s premiere fast‑bowler abroad.
- His recent 200th international wicket came at The Oval, where his final‑hour spell sealed a six‑run win—a demonstration of big‑match temperament.
2. Neglected by England Tour Selectors
- He was rested for matches despite India needing depth in seam. Ashwin questioned the inconsistency:
“When India needed him most, Siraj was rested or not utilized fully.”
3. Leadership’s Role in Elevation
- Ashwin urged Gambhir (head coach) and Shubman Gill (captain) to protect Siraj’s fitness, rotate him smartly, and build plans around his skill—especially in the WTC cycle.
How Gambhir & Gill Can Support Siraj as Ashwin Suggested
| Focus Area | Suggested Action |
|---|---|
| Workload Management | Protect with rest in low-stakes series |
| Bowling Leadership | Build strategies around Siraj’s seam-inswing ability |
| Fitness Support | Provide recovery periods and customised fitness schedules |
| Confidence & Backing | Speak publicly of his value and use him in high-pressure games |
Ashwin emphasized the importance of perceptible backing—not merely selection, but visible planning around Siraj’s use.
Siraj ’s Contributions That Warrant Priority Management
- Oval Test Day 4: Siraj took 5/86, including the final wicket, turning a near-certain England victory into a series pinch.
- WTC significance: As India chase consistency in World Test Championship cycles, Siraj’s seam deliveries across conditions are invaluable.
- Despite a drop catch incident in England, Siraj displayed composure and delivered under pressure—validation of his mental toughness.
Broader Implications of Ashwin’s Warning
- Not just about Siraj—it’s about the system protecting top resources. Ashwin’s message warns against over-reliance or mismanagement that may force influential bowlers into early peals or restricted formats.
- Leaders’ decisions now influence whether Siraj can sustain his trajectory into a career of 300+ Test wickets or limited overs legend.
Ashwin’s call to “recognise Mohammed Siraj” isn’t hyperbole—it’s overdue recognition of a fast bowler who has consistently risen to challenging environments with pace and discipline. With the ascending leadership of Gautam Gambhir and Shubman Gill, India has the chance to cement Siraj’s place as their premier seamer across formats.
By protecting, planning, and publicly backing him, they can ensure India makes the most of a talent potentially capable of defining that bowling department for years. In short, Ashwin’s statement is a management challenge—and Siraj’s future should be worth that effort.
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