In a touching tribute, Team India’s fast bowler Mohammed Siraj remembered his late father after achieving the remarkable feat of becoming the No.1 bowler in the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) ODI bowling rankings. This significant milestone was attained following his exceptional performance in the Asia Cup 2023 final against Sri Lanka.
Siraj posts about his father
Previously ranked at No. 9, Siraj’s spectacular six-wicket haul in the final propelled him to the top spot in the ICC ODI bowling rankings. In a heartfelt Instagram story, he wrote, “Miss you Pappa,” paying homage to his father, Mohammed Ghaus, who passed away in November 2020 due to a lung ailment. At the time of his father’s passing, Siraj was with the Indian team in Australia for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series.
Siraj’s remarkable spell in the Asia Cup final left Sri Lankan batters in disarray, as he secured his fifer in just 16 balls, equalling Chaminda Vaas’ record for the fastest five-wicket haul in ODIs. His exceptional performance played a pivotal role in India’s resounding 10-wicket victory in the final, securing them the continental tournament title.
Looking ahead, Mohammed Siraj is set to showcase his skills in the upcoming three-match home ODI series against Australia. This series holds significant importance for both teams as they aim to build momentum leading up to the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023.
For the initial two ODIs of the series, India has rested key players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, and Kuldeep Yadav. KL Rahul will lead the team in Rohit Sharma’s absence. Siraj remains a crucial part of India’s squad for all three matches, as they prepare to face Australia in a highly anticipated series.
The first match of the series is scheduled to be held at the Punjab Cricket Association IS Bindra Stadium in Mohali on September 22.
India’s Squad for the First Two ODIs: KL Rahul (C & WK), Ravindra Jadeja (Vice-captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Shardul Thakur, Washington Sundar, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, and Prasidh Krishna.
India’s Squad for the Third ODI: Rohit Sharma (C), Hardik Pandya (Vice-captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, KL Rahul (wicketkeeper), Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Axar Patel*, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Mohammed Siraj.
Cricket fans worldwide will continue to follow Mohammed Siraj’s journey and cherish his heartfelt tribute to his late father as he continues to make significant strides in the world of cricket.
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