Mohammed Siraj has carved a special place for himself in Indian cricket with yet another remarkable achievement. The Hyderabad-born pacer, known for his fiery spells and never-say-die attitude, has earned global recognition after his stunning show against England at The Oval. His efforts not only helped India secure a famous win but also brought him an individual honour that has been celebrated widely across the cricketing community.
Mohammed Siraj bags a special award
Siraj was named the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for August 2025, edging out tough competition from New Zealand pacer Matt Henry and West Indies’ Jayden Seales. The recognition came on the back of his match-winning performance in the fifth Test against England, which turned out to be the decisive clash of the series.
The right-arm fast bowler claimed nine wickets across the match at an average of 21.11, including a superb five-wicket haul in the second innings. His relentless accuracy and stamina over 46 overs ensured that India not only clinched the Test but also leveled the series 2-2. Unsurprisingly, Siraj was also adjudged Player of the Match for his outstanding contribution.
Robin Uthappa reacts to Siraj’s recognition
Among the many who lauded Siraj was former India cricketer Robin Uthappa. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Uthappa expressed his joy at the pacer’s success and hailed his unforgettable spell at The Oval. Uthappa’s message echoed the sentiment of countless fans and experts who have called Siraj’s performance one of the finest fast-bowling displays by an Indian in English conditions.
“Take a bow, @mdsirajofficial. That spell at The Oval will be talked about for generations. Huge congrats on the ICC Men’s Player of the Month honour for August 2025. Thoroughly deserved!” wrote Uthappa.
Take a bow, @mdsirajofficial . That spell at The Oval will be talked about for generations. Huge congrats on the ICC Men’s Player of the Month honour for August 2025. Thoroughly deserved! https://t.co/MTlcczLoln
— Robbie Uthappa (@robbieuthappa) September 16, 2025
Siraj’s memorable performance at The Oval
The Oval Test will long be remembered as the match where Siraj delivered one of the most decisive spells of his career. India, under pressure against a strong English batting unit, found their savior in Siraj. His ability to extract movement, hit consistent lengths, and maintain pressure throughout the innings turned the contest in India’s favour.
In the second innings, his five-for dismantled England’s chances of chasing down a challenging target. His efforts not only won him personal glory but also ensured India finished the hard-fought series on level terms.
Speaking after receiving the ICC honour, Siraj remained humble and said: “It is a special honour to be named ICC Player of the Month. Bowling against a top batting lineup in their home conditions was challenging, but it also brought out the best in me. This award belongs as much to my teammates and support staff as it does to me.”
