Siraj Admits He Is Not at 100 Percent in Colombo Test

Indian pace bowler Mohammed Siraj has admitted he is not operating at 100 percent during the ongoing second Test against Sri Lanka in Colombo. Struggling to maintain his standard speeds above 130 km/h, the paceman revealed that an extended layoff following the IPL disrupted his bowling rhythm.

After registering figures of 1-33 in 11 overs during Sri Lanka’s first innings, Siraj explained that he is relying on tactical control rather than raw pace. He noted that coming off a two-month break left him searching for his usual movement, forcing him to adjust his approach to avoid leaking runs on a flat pitch.

Rather than forcing the ball, the Indian fast bowler is using his experience to restrict the scoring rate and pressure the opposition batters. His disciplined spell helped break Sri Lanka’s middle order, including the dismissal of wicketkeeper-batter Niroshan Dickwella.

Cricket experts pointed out that Siraj’s ability to maintain tight line and length despite not being fully match-ready demonstrates his growing maturity in red-ball cricket. Analysts emphasized that holding down an end without conceding runs remains crucial for India’s bowling attack during tough away conditions.

Despite not feeling at 100 percent, Siraj managed to break key partnerships and keep Sri Lanka’s scoring rate under control throughout the first innings.

This two-match series forms part of the 2025–2027 ICC World Test Championship cycle. After India claimed the opening Test in Galle, Siraj’s tactical spell in Colombo aims to help the visitors retain control and secure crucial WTC points.