India pacer Mohammed Siraj grabbed headlines with his blistering pace and helped India register a thrilling win over New Zealand in the 1st ODI in Hyderabad. Hailing from the city, Siraj has made a mark as India’s premier bowler in the absence of their pacer Jasprit Bumrah. The 28-year-old took four wickets in their previous game against Sri Lanka and was excited to return to his hometown as well.
He said, ‘This will be my first international match on the home ground. I have only played IPL there. I will get a lot of confidence as my family and friends will be there to watch the action,” said Mohd Siraj.
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It was a great day for Siraj as his friends and family including his mother were present to watch India against New Zealand. While young Shubman Gill hit a fine double hundred to help India post 349 in 50 overs, it was Siraj who sealed the deal in the latter. New Zealand were struggling in their chase at one stage before Michael Bracewell and Mitchell Santner steadied the ship. Bracewell scored an explosive 140 but India managed to win by 12 runs as Siraj took four wickets for just 46 runs.
However, the BCCI released a video on its social accounts, in which it can be seen that the fast bowler’s family and friends were talking about him and watching him play. And, Siraj’s mother felt proud to see him perform live in front of her and said that she hopes he makes India proud and continues his good form in the upcoming games as well. Team India will now take on New Zealand in Raipur in the second ODI on January 21.
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“I hope my son will make India proud. I am hopeful that my son will do well and go ahead in the sport. And I hope he plays the World Cup,” said Siraj’s mother.
