New Delhi: Mohammed Siraj scripted history on Friday as he became the first Indian bowler to take multiple four-wicket hauls in Test matches at The Oval. The 31-year-old pacer led India’s bowling attack in the ongoing fifth Test against England and delivered an impactful spell, picking up 4 wickets for 86 runs in 16.2 overs. His efforts helped India bowl out England for 247 runs in their first innings.
Siraj made crucial breakthroughs at regular intervals, starting with the dismissal of England’s stand-in captain Ollie Pope, whom he trapped leg-before for 22. He then sent back Joe Root, also LBW, for 29. Later in the day, Siraj removed Jacob Bethell for 6 runs and wrapped up the innings by breaching Harry Brook’s defence. Brook, who top-scored for England with 53 runs, was bowled on the second ball of the 52nd over.
This performance adds to Siraj’s earlier four-wicket haul at the same venue during the 2023 World Test Championship final against Australia, where he took 4 for 108. With Friday’s haul, he becomes the first Indian to achieve the feat of multiple four-fers at The Oval, underlining his growing stature in India’s pace battery.
So far, Siraj’s record at The Oval in Tests includes figures of 1/42 and 0/44 against England in 2021, 4/108 and 1/80 against Australia in 2023, and now 4/86 against England in 2025. His consistency at this venue speaks volumes about his adaptability and experience in overseas conditions.
Siraj’s performance also helped him climb to the top of the wicket-takers’ chart in the ongoing Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. He now has 18 wickets from eight innings in the five-Test series, surpassing England’s Ben Stokes, who has taken 17 wickets in four matches.
Meanwhile, Prasidh Krishna also made significant contributions with the ball, claiming 4 wickets for 62 runs from 16 overs. Together, the Indian pace duo ensured England’s batting line-up never truly settled.
With this milestone, Mohammed Siraj has once again demonstrated his value as India’s pace spearhead, especially in challenging overseas conditions. His ability to rise to big occasions and deliver under pressure continues to be a key asset for the Indian team.
