Mohammed Siraj has become the talk of the town after playing all five Tests in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy and emerging as the leading wicket-taker with 23 wickets. While workload management has become a trend — and was one of the reasons Jasprit Bumrah was pre-decided to play only three of the five Tests — Siraj ended up bowling 185.3 overs, the most by any bowler from either side. His relentless effort helped India draw the series 2-2. His nine-wicket haul at The Oval played a crucial part in India’s win in the final Test.
Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar praised Siraj’s effort and commitment. Speaking to India Today, he said that Siraj has broken the workload management myth with his lion-hearted performances throughout the series.
“Siraj bowled his heart out and he debunked forever this business of workload. I hope that the word ‘workload’ goes out of the Indian Cricket dictionary.”
Gavaskar called the whole concept of workload more of a mental strength than a physical one, and highlighted Siraj’s spell as a reminder of what it means to play for your country.
“If you are going to succumb to people who are talking about workload, then you are never going to have your best players on the field. You’ve got to get them to a situation where you say, ‘Hello, you are playing for your country, and when you are playing for your country, you got to forget the aches and pains in your muscles,” Gavaskar further added.
“Give your very best for the country” – Gavaskar’s message to Team India
Gavaskar didn’t stop there. He also gave a strong message to head coach Gautam Gambhir and the team management, urging them not to buy into the “workload” narrative. Giving the example of Rishabh Pant batting with a fractured toe, he said, “Give your very best for the country. Don’t worry about accident pains.”
He also clarified that his remarks weren’t directed at Jasprit Bumrah, who was rested due to an injury. “Bumrah was an injury issue, not a workload thing… you mustn’t forget what a wonderful bowler he is,” Gavaskar added.
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