Mohammed Siraj silenced his critics by bowling a memorable spell at Wankhede stadium, taking three wickets within seven balls. Sri Lankan batters had no answer to the swing and aggression of Siraj, who not only took wickets but also kept the pressure on for others to strike.
In a recent interview to media, the pacer said he prioritises consistency over wicket count as his parameter for success in the Cricket World Cup 2023. Despite taking nine wickets in seven games, Siraj's primary focus has been on delivering consistently in good areas.
"Taking wickets is important and there is no doubt about that. But my rhythm was not consistent for the last 2-3 matches, sometimes I was in rhythm and sometimes I was not," PTI quoted Siraj as saying after India's 302-run win at the Wankhede Stadium.
"Whatever I had planned coming into this match brought me success and whatever I had thought of, I was able to execute. And I am happy that we have qualified (for semifinals) as well," he added after India's qualification for the semifinals.
With Mohammed Shami's impressive performances, including a second five-wicket haul in three games, and Jasprit Bumrah's consistent strong displays, India's bowling lineup has been formidable in the tournament. However, Siraj preferred not to engage in discussions or comparisons regarding the team's performance.
"When we are doing well everyone keeps saying that the combination is good but when the performances go down there are talks that this bowler should be dropped or that one," Siraj said.
Siraj also dismissed the idea of changing combinations frequently. He said it is important to remain focused on the positives and not let one poor performance lead to excessive discussions about altering the lineup.
"With just one bad game, everyone talks about changes in combination and dropping the players. We are keeping all the negatives outside and taking all the positives along the way with us," Siraj added.
Siraj said he values the information sharing between bowlers in the match, allowing them to adapt and make the necessary adjustments on the field. He said the discussions have enhanced the performance of India's fast bowling unit and have played a significant role in their success in the World Cup.
"We are passing on these messages to each other which is very important. For fast bowlers, it is very important to bowl in a consistent area. In the 50-overs format, when you take a wicket or two in the powerplay, the opposition team gets pushed on the back-foot. It is very important to take wickets early and that is happening, so we want to continue with this momentum," Siraj added.
India will next play South Africa on November 5 at Eden Gardens, Kolkata to ensure a top spot finish in the group stages.