New Delhi | August 9, 2025 : Legendary Pakistan pacer Wasim Akram has hailed Mohammed Siraj as the new spearhead of India’s pace attack in Test cricket, saying the 31-year-old is no longer just a support bowler to Jasprit Bumrah but a leader in his own right.

Siraj’s standout moment came during the Oval Test against England, where he took nine wickets to help India clinch a thrilling six-run win and level the five-match series. Heading into the final day, England required just 35 runs with four wickets in hand. Siraj delivered under intense pressure, taking three of those wickets to seal a famous victory for the visitors.

Akram, speaking to Telecom Asia Sport, lauded Siraj’s resilience and stamina. “Siraj was full of hunger and passion – it was an incredible effort. To bowl nearly 186 overs across five Tests and still be that fiery on the final day shows remarkable stamina and mental strength. He’s not just a support bowler anymore,” he said.

Siraj’s performance was even more impressive given the setback he faced earlier in the match. On Day 4, he misjudged a catch off Harry Brook, stepping onto the boundary rope and conceding a six. Brook went on to score 111, shifting momentum toward England. Yet Siraj bounced back with a match-winning burst the very next day.

“He’s leading the attack and doing it with heart. Even when a catch went down – that of Brook – he didn’t lose focus. That’s the mark of a fighter,” Akram added, praising Siraj’s mental toughness.

The Oval Test kept Akram glued to his television. “I rarely watch cricket when I’m not working, but I was glued to the last day,” he admitted. “I gave India a 60 per cent chance on Day 5. They just needed that first breakthrough. With Woakes injured and India sensing blood, it was game on. Siraj made that possible.”

The former Pakistan captain also praised India’s bold selection call in resting Jasprit Bumrah for the series decider. “It takes a brave team to rest their best bowler. But India had the bench strength, and the plan worked perfectly,” Akram said.

With the Asia Cup 2025 and T20 World Cup 2026 approaching, Akram believes this kind of long-term thinking is essential. “Bumrah is vital across formats, and managing him well is key,” he noted.

Siraj played all five Tests in the series, bowling over 185 overs in total. His consistency and aggression were pivotal for India, especially in challenging English conditions. For Akram, Siraj’s evolution marks a new chapter in India’s fast-bowling legacy.

“Test cricket is alive and kicking when you have performances like this,” Akram concluded.