Mohammed Siraj is no stranger to bouncing back, and he’s done it again this time on one of cricket’s biggest stages. The Indian fast bowler has been named the ICC Player of the Month for August 2025, following his match-winning performance in the fifth Test against England at The Oval.
With Jasprit Bumrah unavailable, the pressure was firmly on Siraj to lead India’s pace attack. And boy, did he deliver.
He played a pivotal role in #TeamIndia's memorable performances during the tour of England recently! 👌👌
— BCCI (@BCCI) September 15, 2025
Say hello 👋 to the ICC Men's Player of the Month for August 2025! 🔝
Congratulations, Mohammed Siraj 👏👏@mdsirajofficial pic.twitter.com/Iach0IDK3w
Leading from the Front
In what turned out to be a series-deciding clash, Siraj rose to the occasion with a nine-wicket haul across both innings – his best figures on English soil. On the final day, with the match hanging in the balance, Siraj tore through England’s batting lineup, sealing a dramatic win for India and earning himself the Player of the Match award.
That single performance not only helped India draw the series 2-2, but also reminded everyone why Siraj is one of the most valuable multi-format players in the Indian setup today.
“It Brought Out the Best in Me”
Reflecting on the award, Siraj said:
“It’s a special honour to be named ICC Player of the Month. This series will stay with me forever—it was intense, emotional, and incredibly competitive. Bowling in England is never easy, but moments like these bring out the fighter in me.”
He added that he was proud to deliver when the team needed him the most, especially in the absence of some key senior players.
More Than Just Stats
While the numbers – 9 wickets at an average of 21.11—tell their own story, it was Siraj’s energy, aggression, and relentless spirit that truly stood out. His celebrations, his stare-downs, and that unmistakable roar after every big wicket showed just how much it meant.
Siraj edged out New Zealand’s Matt Henry and West Indies quick Jayden Seales to win the award, and he didn’t forget to share the moment.
“This isn’t just for me. It’s for my teammates, the support staff, and everyone who believed in me. I’ll keep giving my everything for India.”
From bowling in tennis-ball tournaments in Hyderabad to winning international awards at The Oval, Siraj’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. And if this performance is anything to go by, the best might still be ahead of him.
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