Mohali: India and Royal Challengers Bangalore pacer Mohammed Siraj, who grabbed four wickets on Thursday to lead his side to a 24-run win over Punjab Kings in the IPL on Thursday, credited the efforts he put in during the Covid-enforced lockdown for his success.
Siraj has emerged as one of the most impressive bowlers in international cricket across formats, shouldering the responsibility in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah for India. He was also ranked the No 1 ODI bowler for about two months earlier this year.
“The lockdown was very important for me. I was quite down before that because I used to be expensive earlier. I focussed on my gym training, on my bowling and I wanted to do well,” Siraj told the broadcaster after the IPL game against PBKS on Thursday.
“Even in the ODIs, my rhythm was good, my confidence was high and I have brought that into this season of the IPL. I am a good fielder; I just make a few mistakes once in a while (smiles). I always try to keep improving in every aspect so that I can remain a part of the team,” he added. Virat Kohli, who captained RCB on Thursday, said the pitch at the PCA IS Bindra Stadium here was challenging to bat on.
“This (win) does not make us an invincible team or the league position before today did not make us a bad team. The table cannot define your mood, when you have played just five or
six games.”