Mohammed Siraj reveals his primary goal for the big Test series against England

The battle lines have been drawn. The stage is set for the ultimate Test as Virat Kohli's men will face Joe Root's England in a five-match Test series starting tomorrow at Trent Bridge. 

Mohammed Siraj, who played a pivotal role in India's historic Test series victory over Australia in their own backyard, will be looking to replicate his success in the all-important five-match Test series against England as well. He finished the Border-Gavaskar Trophy as the leading wicket-taker for India, scalping 13 wickets at an average of 29.54, including a five-wicket haul. A strong show in the Test series against Australia did wonders for his confidence. 

In an exclusive interview with the Times of India (TOI), Mohammed Siraj recalled his fond memories from the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. He described the Australian tour as a learning experience that helped him grow as a player. 

“The Australia series taught me a lot. Playing under Ajju bhaiya (Ajinkya Rahane) was amazing. He backed me a lot. I still get goosebumps when I recall that day. Holding the winning trophy and celebrating with the team is a different feeling altogether. I am confident that we will beat England the way we defeated Australia. I am not nervous, I am confident. We have stars in our team,”  Siraj was quoted as saying to TOI. 

Talking about the big English series, The 26-year-old is optimistic of India’s chances in the upcoming Test series against England. With the likes of Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja in the ranks, India sport a well-rounded bowling attack. On the batting front, India have a stronger lineup than England. Several cricket pundits too believe Virat Kohli-led side have a very good chance of turning the tables this time. 

"I am confident India will beat England under Virat bhaiya's captaincy. I am eager to hold the winning trophy with Virat bhaiya in England. Our team is looking so strong and we are ready for this big series," The pacer added. 

Siraj had accounted for Joe Root earlier this year against England in the final Test at the Motera, trapping him in front of the stumps with a sharp inswinger. He has already set his sights on the England skipper’s wicket, yet again. He is looking forward to troubling Root once more, but this time in England. His primary goal, however, will remain to take as many wickets as possible for the team.

“Joe Root is England’s best batsman. I am targetting his wicket and there are others too who I want to target. I dismissed Root during the home series and he is part of my plan of action. My aim is to take as many wickets for my team as possible, ” he concluded.