Mohammed Shami has revealed what he actually told struggling Mohammed Siraj during the recent Duleep Trophy final that actually turned the tables and improved his bowling rhythm at Chepauk Stadium in Chennai.
Shami, representing East Zone, and Siraj, playing for South Zone, spoke on the field amid the match as the fellow Indian pacer failed to trouble the batters. East Zone ultimately secured the title based on a first-innings lead.
Shami reveals mid-match advice that helped Siraj find bowling rhythm during Duleep Trophy final
As reported by Cricbuzz, Shami explained that the discussion centred on bowling technique after Siraj struggled for rhythm in the first innings. He said:
“Whenever I interact with guys I’ve played with or share a good bond with, I focus on their skill.”
Shami added:
“In the first innings, Siraj wasn’t quite finding his natural rhythm compared to how he bowled later. I just reminded him that to get back on top, he needed to return to his core strengths.”
The Indian cricketer further revealed:
“When your run-up and rhythm are in sync, your line and length fall into place automatically. That’s all we were talking about.”
Siraj, returning from a two-month break, later improved his pace and control in the second innings. The exchange has been noted as an example of the camaraderie between the two experienced Indian fast bowlers, even while competing for opposing sides in the domestic competition.
Siraj, who is looking to find his bowling rhythm, has been appointed as the captain of the upcoming Ranji Trophy tournament. The domestic league is going to help the player find his momentum and get back to his calibre. Duleep Trophy also played a very crucial role in helping him practice ahead of major campaigns.
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