Kolkata: India pacer Mohammed Siraj expressed his excitement ahead of the upcoming two-Test series against South Africa, set to begin on November 14 (Friday) at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, saying he is eager to make the most of the opportunity.
Siraj will lead India’s pace attack alongside world No. 1 Test bowler Jasprit Bumrah against the defending World Test Championship (WTC) winners. The 31-year-old Hyderabad seamer, currently the leading wicket-taker in the 2025–27 WTC cycle, said he is in good rhythm and ready for the challenge.
“This series is crucial for the new WTC cycle, especially since South Africa are the defending champions. They drew 1-1 with Pakistan, but we’re confident after our good performances — we built a positive environment, did well in England, and won against the West Indies. Personally, I’m bowling with good rhythm and looking to make the most of it. Facing strong teams always helps identify areas to improve, and I’m really excited for this challenge,” Siraj told JioStar.
Siraj was instrumental in India’s 2-0 Test series win over the West Indies, taking 10 wickets at an impressive average of 13. He also shone during the five-Test series against England, finishing as the highest wicket-taker with 23 wickets, including two five-wicket hauls and a four-fer, while delivering more than 1,100 balls, the most by any bowler in the series.
Under Shubman Gill’s captaincy, India have made a solid start to the ongoing WTC cycle, winning four of seven Tests, losing two, and drawing one. They currently sit third on the WTC 2025–27 points table with a PCT of 61.90.
Meanwhile, Temba Bavuma’s South Africa enter the series after drawing their away assignment against Pakistan, but India are expected to start as clear favourites on home soil.
