India vs Windies: Mohammed Siraj recalls how Kohli made him felt at home before his T20I debut

Indian fast bowler Mohammed Siraj recently earned his maiden Test call-up for the home series against Windies. The lad from Hyderabad has done exceedingly well at the domestic level for his Hyderabad state team. He came into the reckoning for a spot in the Test squad, after pulling up consistent shows with the ball for India ‘A’ in games against South Africa A, Australia A, England Lions, and Windies ‘A’.

The 24-year-old speedster has also successfully plied his trade in the Indian Premier League (IPL), representing Sunrisers Hyderabad in his maiden season followed by the Virat Kohli-captained Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) earlier this year. The pace bowler was optimistic about his chances especially after an eight-wicket haul against Australia ‘A’ in September made him the talk of the town.

Kohli made it easy for the youngster

“It is a dream come true for me. I wanted to represent my country in Tests and knew I will be able to impress the selectors someday. I am so happy. I have done well for India A recently and had an idea about my selection in the Test team,” Siraj told Times of India.

Siraj made his T20I debut for India last year against the Kiwis at home. The youngster shared his experience on how the likes of Kohli and others made him felt at home before his debut game. “When I was selected for T20Is against New Zealand last year, I had a chat with Kohli bhai. I was nervous. He said ‘Tension mat le, ground pe baat karenge. Bass ready reh kal khelne ke liye’ (Don’t worry, we will talk on the field. Just be ready for your debut match).”

“When I hit the field, he said… I have seen your game. Just go and bowl the way you have been. Don’t experiment. He took away the pressure. I was delighted after dismissing New Zealand captain Kane Williamson to claim my first international wicket,” Siraj said.

The 24-year even mentioned the insights shared by MS Dhoni on how one can vary his length and adjust according to the batsman’s footwork. Siraj has thus far only played three T20Is in which he has picked up as many wickets and conceded runs at an economy of over 12.

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