India speedster Mohammed Siraj was the only pacer from the Shubman Gill-led side who played all the Test matches of the five-match series of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025. He ended the series as the highest wicket-taker with 23 scalps at an average of 32.43. In the absence of India’s spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, Siraj took the responsibility and took two five-wicket hauls as well.
Former India captain Mohammad Azharuddin praised Siraj for his heroics in England and believes that the speedster's favourite food- nalli gosht biryani and paya have helped the pacer build the strength he needs to deliver match-winning spells.
“Siraj was outstanding. Thanks to nalli gosht biryani and paya [which are his favourite food] he has developed a strong body, particularly his legs. He showed a lot of enthusiasm and energy. Throughout the series he had the hunger to excel and deliver for India,” Azharuddin told Mid-Day.
Azharuddin was particularly impressed with Siraj's performance in the fifth and the final Test against England at The Oval in London.
“That spell at the Oval was incredible. He took on the responsibility admirably in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah. He came hard at the England batters and bowled with a lot of intensity. He is clearly the new super star of Indian sport,” he added.
On Day 5 of the fifth Test match at The Oval, England were favourites to win the match and the series 3-1. However, Siraj had other plans. The 31-year-old picked up three wickets in no time, helping India register a memorable six-run victory, eventually drawing the five-match series 2-2. Siraj bowled 185.3 overs in the five-Test match series of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025 which was most by any bowler.