England’s ultra-aggressive approach towards Test cricket, also known as ‘Bazball’, has captured the imagination of the cricketing world.
With this style, the Three Lions have produced impressive results under the regime of Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum over the last two seasons.
The tour of India is considered as the next biggest challenge for England. The Stokes-led side is currently in India for a five-match Test series, scheduled to be played from January 25 to March 11.
On the eve of the opening Test, India pacer Mohammed Siraj issued a warning for England, suggesting that if the visitors continue with their aggressive approach, then the match might end within a day-and-a-half or two.
"If England play Bazball in Indian conditions, the match might get over within a day-and-a-half or two. It's not easy to hit every time here as the ball turns sometimes and straightens on other occasions," Siraj said while speaking to Jio Cinema.
"So, I think it'll be difficult to see Bazball here. But if they play it, it'll be good for us as the match may get over quickly," he added.
Talking about his preparation for the series, Siraj highlighted the importance of maintaining consistency in hitting the right spots.
"I bowl with the new ball, so my line and length remain the same. I don't change things whether it's the white ball or the red ball. You have to bowl that length of five-six metres because with the new ball, you have to pitch it up to get wickets," the right-arm quick stated.
"If the ball doesn't swing, you have to adjust the length slightly. So, I try to find consistency and keep pitching the new ball at the same spot. That's what I focus on whether it's the new ball or the old ball. That consistency has helped me take wickets till now," he explained.
Mohammed Siraj was the Player-of-the-Match in India’s last Test match against South Africa in Cape Town. His six-wicket haul in South Africa’s first innings set the tone for India’s series-levelling victory.
Siraj would be keen to carry his good form in the home Test series against a strong England side.
(With PTI Inputs)
