In a remarkable leap that showcases both skill and resilience, Indian fast bowler Mohammed Siraj has achieved his career-best 15th position in the latest ICC Men’s Test Bowling Rankings. The rise not only reflects Siraj’s continued impact with the ball but also his growing reputation as one of India’s most reliable pacers in all formats.
From humble beginnings in Hyderabad to becoming a vital cog in India’s pace battery, Siraj’s journey has been anything but conventional. His latest career milestone stands as a testament to the hard work, discipline, and hunger he brings to the cricket field every time he dons the national colors.
A Meteoric Rise in the Test Arena
Siraj’s climb to the 15th spot in the ICC rankings is no fluke. Over the past year, he has consistently delivered under pressure—often taking wickets at crucial junctures and breaking vital partnerships. Whether bowling with the new ball or returning for second and third spells, Siraj has displayed impeccable control, reverse swing mastery, and an aggressive intent that unsettles even the best of batters.
His performances in recent Test series—particularly against England and the West Indies—have stood out. Not just for the numbers he’s posted, but for the impact those spells have had on match outcomes. In helpful conditions, Siraj has been lethal; in unresponsive ones, he’s shown perseverance and patience, qualities that define a world-class Test bowler.
The Grit Behind the Glory
Mohammed Siraj’s rise in international cricket has been deeply inspiring. Growing up in a modest household, with his father driving an auto-rickshaw and his mother working tirelessly to keep the home running, Siraj’s early life was filled with struggle. Without access to elite coaching or facilities in his formative years, he relied on tennis ball cricket and pure passion to hone his craft.
Even after breaking into domestic cricket, Siraj was often written off as a white-ball specialist. However, the selectors’ faith in his red-ball capabilities—especially during the historic 2020-21 tour of Australia—proved to be a turning point in his career. When the Indian team was depleted due to injuries, it was Siraj who rose to the occasion at the Gabba, leading the attack with maturity and taking a five-wicket haul in just his third Test match.
A Complete Fast Bowler in the Making
One of the most striking features of Siraj’s bowling is his versatility. He can swing the ball both ways, extract bounce on unhelpful pitches, and bowl long spells with intensity. His seam presentation and ability to move the ball late make him a nightmare for top-order batters. More importantly, he brings energy and enthusiasm that often lifts the entire team.
His ability to adapt across formats also adds immense value. While his latest career-high ranking comes in the Test format, Siraj has also made headlines with match-winning performances in ODIs and T20s, most notably his six-wicket haul against Sri Lanka in the 2023 Asia Cup Final.
The Road Ahead
At just 31 years of age, Siraj is entering the prime of his cricketing career. With the 2025 World Test Championship Final and the Border-Gavaskar Trophy looming large, his presence in India’s pace arsenal is crucial. His rise in the ICC rankings is likely just the beginning; if he continues this upward trajectory, there’s every chance he could break into the top 10 soon.
Final Thoughts
Mohammed Siraj’s career-best 15th position in the ICC Test Bowling Rankings is more than just a statistical achievement—it’s a celebration of persistence, character, and passion for the game. From Hyderabad streets to cricket’s grandest arenas, Siraj’s journey is a reminder that heroes aren’t always born—they are made, through struggle, sacrifice, and an undying love for the game.