NEW DELHI: Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj exuded confidence ahead of India’s upcoming World Test Championship (WTC) series against defending champions South Africa, calling it a “crucial” contest in the new WTC cycle.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!India, placed third on the WTC points table, will host South Africa in a two-Test series starting Friday. While the Proteas began their title defence with a 1-1 draw in Pakistan, India are buoyed by their recent success — a drawn series in England followed by a home win over the West Indies.ALSO READ:WTC race heats up – India eye crucial home points vs South Africa“This series is crucial for the new WTC cycle, especially since South Africa is the defending champion,” Siraj said in an interview with JioStar. “While they drew 1-1 with Pakistan, we’re confident from our own good form — we created a positive environment, performed well in England, and won against the West Indies.”
Siraj has been India’s pace spearhead in red-ball cricket over the past year, finishing as the leading wicket-taker in the five-Test series against England with 23 wickets. He carried that form against the Caribbean, taking 10 wickets in two Tests.“Personally, I’m bowling with good rhythm and looking to make the most of it,” the Hyderabad-born pacer added. “Facing strong teams helps identify areas to improve, and I’m really excited for this challenge.”With India eyeing a return to the WTC final after finishing runners-up in the first two editions, Siraj’s form with the new ball will be vital.
