Mumbai, India – Mohammed Siraj delivered a stellar performance in his return to T20 International cricket, claiming 3-29 against the USA at the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. The unexpected call-up and subsequent impactful showing by the Indian fast bowler has quickly become a talking point of the tournament. Siraj’s performance was particularly notable given his recent focus on Test cricket and planned personal time.
The match, held at the Wankhede Stadium on February 7, 2026, saw India defeat the USA by 29 runs. Siraj was drafted into the squad just 24 hours prior as a replacement for the injured Harshit Rana, and then stepped into the starting eleven due to Jasprit Bumrah’s illness. This rapid sequence of events dramatically altered Siraj’s plans.
Mohammed Siraj’s T20 World Cup Impact
Siraj’s inclusion proved immediately valuable. He secured a wicket with his fourth delivery, setting the tone for India’s bowling attack. His ability to quickly adapt to the T20 format, after a 19-month absence, impressed both teammates and analysts. According to reports, his disciplined line and length were key to restricting the USA’s scoring.
However, Siraj’s journey to this moment was unexpected. He had been initially omitted from the T20 World Cup squad and was planning a trip to Spain to watch Real Madrid play. “First of all, in the last 24 hours, when I was sitting on the flight, it felt like a dream,” Siraj told reporters after the match. He received a call from captain Suryakumar Yadav instructing him to prepare for immediate duty.
From Test Specialist to T20 Contender
The 31-year-old Siraj has established himself as a prominent figure in India’s Test team, accumulating 139 wickets in 45 matches. His recent focus has been primarily on the longer format of the game. This makes his successful transition back to T20 cricket all the more remarkable. The team’s reliance on his experience in a crucial tournament match highlights his versatility as a cricketer.
Additionally, Siraj’s passion for football, particularly his admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo, is well-known. He reportedly has a Ronaldo wallpaper on his phone and often mimics the footballer’s signature “Siu” celebration after taking a wicket. This personal connection adds another layer to his story and resonates with fans.
The USA, competing in their first major ICC tournament, showed flashes of potential but ultimately struggled against India’s experienced bowling lineup. The match provided valuable experience for the American team as they continue their journey in the T20 World Cup. The performance also underscored the importance of squad depth in a demanding tournament schedule.
Meanwhile, the Indian team will be looking to build on this victory as they progress through the group stage. The quick turnaround and demanding schedule of the tournament will require careful management of player fitness and workload. The team’s performance in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup will be closely watched by cricket fans worldwide.
India’s next match is against Namibia in New Delhi on Thursday. The team will likely assess Bumrah’s condition before deciding on the final playing eleven. The coming days will be crucial for India as they aim to secure a strong position in the tournament standings. The availability of key players and their ability to adapt to different conditions will be key factors in their success. The team’s overall World Cup campaign remains uncertain, dependent on both performance and unforeseen circumstances.