Cricket
IND vs ENG: Morkel Backs Siraj’s Fire, Urges India to Keep Fighting at The Oval
Ray Sportz Web Desk: India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel praised fast bowler Mohammed Siraj for his grit and leadership during a rain-interrupted Day 4 of the fifth Test at The Oval. With India under pressure and Jasprit Bumrah sidelined, Morkel revealed that Siraj stepped up, declaring himself fit and ready to fight for the team.
“The guy is always putting his hand up. He told us straight — ‘I want to play this Test and win it for the team,’” Morkel said during the post-day press conference. He lauded Siraj for leading by example, calling him a “natural leader” who motivates others through sheer effort.
Despite England’s upper hand, Morkel urged his bowlers to stay mentally strong and not lose belief heading into the final day. “There’s no room to throw in the towel. One breakthrough can change everything,” he added.
The dismissal of Joe Root late in the day came as a much-needed relief, with Morkel admitting Root had given them “sleepless nights.” With the weather clearing and tension high, all eyes now turn to a gripping Day 5 finish.