Young left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh has credited senior fast bowler Mohammed Siraj for teaching him an invaluable lesson—how to “enjoy the boring times” in cricket. Playing in the ongoing Duleep Trophy, Arshdeep said Siraj’s words have helped him approach challenging phases with a calmer mindset, both on and off the field.
Lessons from the England Tour
Arshdeep and Siraj spent significant time together during India’s tour of England for the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, which ended 2-2. While Siraj played all five Tests, Arshdeep didn’t get a debut due to team combinations and fitness concerns. Still, the youngster picked up vital knowledge.
“In red-ball cricket, there are phases where nothing happens—like post-lunch sessions. Siraj told me how you deal with those moments determines your success. That advice stayed with me,” Arshdeep said.
Applying It in the Duleep Trophy
Against East Zone, Arshdeep put Siraj’s advice into practice. Even when the ball wasn’t offering much, he stayed patient, enjoying bowling in partnership and keeping the pressure on. He ended up picking a wicket in the second innings and even chipped in with a couple of sixes.
“This game I felt really good. I bowled 17 overs, the rhythm was there, and the body responded well,” he added.
Adapting Across Formats
Having earned a Test call-up, Arshdeep is now considered an all-format option. After the Duleep Trophy, he is set to feature in the Asia Cup in the UAE. For him, adaptability is the biggest key.
“In modern cricket, it’s all about adapting—knowing when to attack, when to contain, and adjusting to the wicket and conditions,” he explained.
Arshdeep’s ability to embrace both the high-pressure spells and the quiet phases may well define his future in red-ball cricket.
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