Mohammed Siraj Shines with Batting Brilliance in Test Against Afghanistan

In a thrilling display of batting prowess, Mohammed Siraj made headlines during the One-Off Test against Afghanistan. His explosive innings of 22 runs off just 12 balls electrified the crowd and drew comparisons to cricket legend Viv Richards. As India declared their first innings at 564 runs, Siraj's late cameo added crucial momentum to the team's performance. This article delves into the highlights of the match, including key contributions from other players and the reactions from fans on social media. Discover how Siraj's fearless approach transformed the game and left a lasting impression.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 7, 2026, 14:50 IST

India's Dominance on Day 2 of Test Match

On June 7, during the One-Off Test against Afghanistan at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, New Chandigarh, Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj showcased his batting skills on Day 2.

India declared their first innings after amassing a total of 564 runs for 8 wickets in 127 overs. Captain Shubman Gill (126) and opener KL Rahul (100) led the charge with impressive centuries, while Rishabh Pant contributed significantly with 81 runs off 121 balls. Notably, all three players benefited from Afghanistan's DRS errors, which allowed India to establish a strong position.

Key Contributions from the Indian Batting Lineup

Washington Sundar added an unbeaten 52 runs from 68 balls, and his partnership of 54 runs with Manav Suthar (28) helped India cross the 500-run mark. Siraj's late innings contribution of 22 runs off just 12 balls further boosted the team's scoring rate before the declaration.

Siraj's Explosive Performance Captivates Fans

As India declared their innings, Siraj's explosive batting drew attention. Although Gill, Rahul, Pant, and Sundar laid the groundwork with their solid performances, it was Siraj's late surge that electrified the crowd.

Coming in to bat after Suthar's dismissal at 510/7, Siraj quickly shifted into an aggressive batting style. He began his innings with a boundary off Nangeyalia Kharote and followed it up with a six and two fours in the 120th over.

In the 121st over, he faced Mohammad Saleem Safi, hitting a boundary before the bowler eventually dismissed him, ending his innings at 540/8.

Social Media Buzz Following Siraj's Performance

Siraj's quickfire 22 runs off 12 balls, featuring 4 fours and a six, generated a flurry of reactions on social media, particularly on X (formerly Twitter). Fans were amazed by his T20-style batting in a Test match, with many likening him to the legendary Viv Richards.

Comments flooded in, with fans dubbing him 'Sir Vivian Mohammed Siraj Richards' and praising his fearless approach. His innings was characterized by aggressive hitting, devoid of any defensive play, which delighted spectators.

Siraj's performance not only added crucial runs but also injected excitement into the match, compelling Afghanistan's bowlers to adopt a defensive stance.

Afghanistan's Bowling Struggles

Afghanistan's bowling attack was spearheaded by Mohammad Saleem Safi, who recorded figures of 6 wickets for 140 runs at an economy rate of 5.20 over 27 overs. Ziaur Rahman Sharifi and Hashmatullah Shahidi each took a wicket but struggled to contain India's formidable batting lineup as the hosts built a substantial first-innings total.