BAN v IND 2022: WATCH – “…That is why I did that,” Siraj gives explanation for his send-off act after dismissing Litton Das

After castling Litton Das, Siraj celebrated with finger on his lips and then put his hand behind his ears.

By Salman Anjum - 24 Dec, 2022

India fast bowler Mohammed Siraj bowled his heart out in Bangladesh’s second innings in the ongoing second Test in Dhaka.

The right-arm pacer returned with the figures of 2 for 41 in his 11 overs on a spinning track, helping India bundle out the hosts for 231. Apart from his spell, he also caught the attention for his send-off act after castling Litton Das with a ripper.

After dismissing the Bangladesh batter on 73, Siraj celebrated with finger on his lips and then put his hand behind his ears.

Addressing the media after the end of the third day’s play, the paceman gave an explanation for his act and opened up on his rivalry with Litton throughout the series.

Notably, the Hyderabad lad was involved in a heated exchange with Litton in the first innings of the opening Test in Chattogram.

“The crowd was shouting from that end that is why I did that. After umpire gave a not out on an LBW appeal against Taskin, I went back fielding, and that is when I heard the crowd shouting something that is why I did that,” Siraj said in the post-day presser.

“There is nothing with Litton Das. It's a gentleman's game. Don't think so much. All a fast bowler needs is a bit of chit chat with the batsman so that his focus shifts and then he says some words. There is no such rivalry. It's just fun,” he added.

Coming to the second Test, the visitors were reduced to 45/4 in a tricky chase of 145 at the close of play on Day 3.

India might have only six wickets left but Siraj feels there is nothing to worry about as one set batter can take the team over the line.

“I feel, we shouldn’t think too much now because we have lost just four wickets. We need around 80 (100) or so. We need just one batter to get set, Akshar is showing right intent,” he stated.

At stumps, Akshar Patel (26) and Jaydev Unadkat (3) were at the crease with the tourists still needing another 100 runs.

“Yes, we lost two wickets extra but Akshar is set, he is showing good intent. We also have Rishabh (Pant) and Shreyas (Iyer) after that, so we shouldn’t think too much.”

After losing KL Rahul (2) and Cheteshwar Pujara (6) cheaply, India sent Akshar Patel as a night watchman even though more than 15 overs were remaining in the day.

“Sending Akshar is management’s call. I feel if there is a lefty and righty batter, then it will be difficult for the bowlers to adjust. So, I think because of that this call was taken,” Siraj said.

(With HT/PTI inputs)

By Salman Anjum - 24 Dec, 2022

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