Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj is all set to play for Hyderabad in the remaining matches of the ongoing Ranji Trophy 2018-19, dreaming to help the side qualify for the knock-out stage and is looking forward to making the most of this opportunity to be in the national recognition.

With fresh from his experience of bowling in the windy conditions in New Zealand, which were favorable for swing bowling, Siraj wants to make this opportunity of playing for India in ODIs and Tests.

Siraj told Sportstar on Tuesday, “That is why I am glad to be back in the Hyderabad team for the remaining Ranji matches starting with the one against Bengal (at the Uppal Stadium here) from December 14. This should be a perfect platform again for me to be in the news for the right reasons.”

The 24-year-old further added, “It is my dream to help Hyderabad qualify for the knock-out stage. And, honestly, I am excited to play in Ranji Trophy as it is this championship — my 41 wickets two seasons ago — that gave me national recognition.”

On India A tour of New Zealand experience, Siraj said, “I didn’t try anything new in New Zealand where I picked up seven wickets from three matches, including a four-wicket haul. In fact, bowling in those conditions was a huge challenge. Definitely, I am richer by that experience.”

The spirited fast bowler added, “I just want to keep things simple as that is how I have been approaching my task of bowling to different sides at different levels. My strength is my ability to bring one back into the batsman. I continue to work on that even while trying to have the surprise element.”

Siraj signed off by saying, “In fact, when I was in the Test squad (for the series against West Indies at home), I did engage myself in long chats with the likes of Ishant (Sharma), Umesh (Yadav) to pick up a few things which should help me become a better bowler. The pressure of expectation will be there now, but I am no more nervous. I am more mature, confident and ready for bigger challenges.”

(With Sportstar Inputs)