'When he doesn't have Bumrah': Irfan Pathan points out Mohammed Siraj's astonishing Trait after T20 World Cup Heroics

Mohammed Siraj delivered a standout performance against the United States in India's opening match of the T20 World Cup 2026 at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, on February 7.

As a late call-up replacing the injured Harshit Rana and unwell Jasprit Bumrah, Siraj made a triumphant return to T20Is after nearly two years.

He claimed 3 wickets for 29 runs in his 4 overs, proving pivotal in India's 29-run victory. Siraj struck early, dismissing openers Andries Gous and Saiteja Mukkamalla to reduce USA to 13/3 alongside Arshdeep Singh. He returned in the death overs, sealing the win by trapping Shubham Ranjane lbw on the final ball.

His disciplined line and length, honed from recent Ranji Trophy outings, exploited the slow pitch effectively. This fiery spell

marked an emotional comeback. Siraj cancelled personal plans, including watching Real Madrid, after a surprise call from captain Suryakumar Yadav. Siraj's efforts, combined with Suryakumar's unbeaten 84, helped India defend 161/9 and start their title defense strongly.

Irfan Pathan heaps praises on Mohammed Siraj

And after the match, former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan pointed out Siraj's spearheading ability at the absence of Jasprit Bumrah. The India pacer showcased similar trait in the Test series against England last year and Pathan heaped praises on Siraj's bowling renaissance while talking with Jio Hostar after the match.

"Mohammed Siraj comes into his own when he doesn't have Bumrah alongside him. He does some magical things. That was a fantastic performance from him. He was hungry, and he got the opportunity. Just one day ago, he joined the team and gave a performance like that," Pathan said.

"At the halfway stage, India were under pressure; there was no doubt about it, because it was not a score of 200, it was about 160. And if the USA had got a good start, India would have been in trouble. So, Siraj and Arshdeep's spells in the Powerplay were very crucial, and that was the difference in India winning this game," the former India player added.

India, after a winning star, will be aiming to continue their merry run as they play Namibia in the next match on February 12.