Mohammed Siraj has revealed that the two-month break has affected his progress and cost him his bowling rhythm. The Indian fast bowler stated that during the recent Sri Lanka Test series, the break disrupted his ability, leaving him struggling for pace and consistency in the tournament.
However, he also stated that his bowling spells at the recently concluded Duleep Trophy, won by the East Zone side, motivated him and helped him bring the falling pieces back. Siraj, who recently failed to trouble the batters, has attributed the drop in form to the break.
Siraj reveals how a two-month break cost him his bowling rhythm during Sri Lanka Test series
Speaking after the Duleep Trophy final, Siraj told select media that he is “purely a rhythm bowler” and that long layoffs do not suit his body. He added:
“If I’m not in sync, I can’t explode through the crease.”
Siraj added:
“That was the struggle in Sri Lanka – my run-up felt disjointed. Some strides were too short, others were too long, and that broke my flow and cost me pace.”
Siraj noted that in his ten-year career he had never previously taken two full months off. While short breaks are manageable, he said no amount of practice fully replicates match intensity. He also added that even though it affected him, no amount of excuses can justify it when you're playing for your country.
In the Duleep Trophy final at Chepauk, Siraj struggled in the first innings against South Zone, bowling at around 125-130 kph and conceding runs at a high economy rate on a flattening pitch. He rediscovered his rhythm in the second innings, regularly hitting close to 135 kph with improved control and movement. His figures improved markedly as he settled into a more natural run-up. Meanwhile, East Zone secured the title on a first-innings lead.
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