Mohammed Siraj Backs Ravindra Jadeja to Bounce Back in Deciding ODI Against New Zealand

Siraj's Confidence in Jadeja's Comeback

Indore: Indian fast bowler Mohammed Siraj expressed his belief on Saturday that senior all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja will quickly regain his form, emphasizing that it only takes one wicket for the left-arm spinner to find his rhythm in the crucial third ODI against New Zealand on Sunday.

In the first two ODIs of the series, Jadeja failed to take any wickets, recording figures of 0/44 and 0/56, and managed just one wicket in the previous three-match series against South Africa.

Siraj stated during the pre-match press conference, "I don't see any issues with Jadeja's form. It's just about getting that first wicket. Once he achieves that, you'll witness a transformed bowler."

Despite his recent struggles, Jadeja's overall ODI statistics remain impressive, with nearly 2,900 runs at an average of just over 32 and 232 wickets from 209 matches.

Siraj reassured that the bowling unit is confident, even after facing pressure in the second ODI, where missed opportunities allowed New Zealand to equalize the series.

"We performed well in both games. Our bowling and batting were solid in the first ODI. In the second match, despite losing early wickets, KL Rahul and Nitish Reddy made significant contributions," he remarked.

Reflecting on Daryl Mitchell's impactful innings, Siraj acknowledged that India had their chances.

"There was a moment when we dropped a catch. If we had taken that opportunity, the outcome might have been different. Top-class batsmen capitalize on the few chances they get," he noted.

When asked about Mitchell's consistent success against India, Siraj mentioned that while the bowlers had strategies in place, execution during critical moments was lacking.

"We had plans, especially for the middle overs, but it ultimately comes down to seizing that one opportunity. If we had dismissed him, the situation would have changed," he added.

Siraj emphasized that the team's atmosphere remains positive, even as they head into a decisive match.

"The team environment is excellent. Senior players provide strong guidance. Wins and losses are part of the game, but the dressing room atmosphere is very healthy, especially as we gear up for larger tournaments," he stated.

Regarding the possibility of Arshdeep Singh sharing the new ball at the compact Indore ground, Siraj expressed confidence in the left-arm bowler, although he noted that the final decision lies with the management.

"Arshdeep has bowled exceptionally well and taken wickets with the new ball. The captain and coach determine the roles, but as a bowler, my job is to apply pressure and restrict runs. I have complete faith in him," Siraj said.

"Harshit (Rana) has also performed well, taking wickets early on. It's great for him to get this opportunity ahead of the World Cup."

On his omission from the T20 World Cup squad, Siraj expressed his desire to participate in the prestigious tournament but acknowledged that workload management likely influenced the decision.

With Holkar Stadium known for high-scoring games, Siraj mentioned he would focus on maintaining a stump-to-stump line.

"It's a small ground and typically a high-scoring venue. As a bowler, sticking to a stump-to-stump line gives you options like LBW or bowled. Even if you miss, there's still a chance for a wicket," he explained.

The ODI series between India and New Zealand is currently tied at 1-1, with the upcoming match set to determine the series winner.