• Mohammed Siraj revealed how Cristiano Ronaldo became an unexpected source of inspiration for his match-winning performance in Oval Test.

  • Siraj finished the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025 with 23 wickets — the most by any bowler in the series.

ENG vs IND: How Cristiano Ronaldo inspired Mohammed Siraj’s heroics in India’s epic Oval Test win
How Cristiano Ronaldo helped Mohammed Siraj to sizzle in Oval Test (Image Source: X)

India pulled off a sensational six-run victory against England at The Oval, levelling the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025 at 2-2. Starting the final day with England needing just 35 runs and four wickets in hand, the hosts seemed in control. However, Mohammed Siraj produced a breathtaking spell of fast bowling that turned the match on its head. He dismissed Jamie Smith early and later delivered a searing yorker to clean up Gus Atkinson, sealing one of India’s most thrilling overseas Test wins. The triumph was a testament to India’s fighting spirit and Siraj’s ability to rise to the occasion.

The Cristiano Ronaldo connection behind Mohammed Siraj’s bowling heroics

After the match, Siraj revealed an unusual source of motivation behind his match-winning performance — Cristiano Ronaldo. The fiery pacer shared that he woke up two hours earlier than usual on the final day and searched for a motivational image. He found one of Ronaldo with the word “Believe” written across it and immediately set it as his phone wallpaper.

“This morning when I woke up, I searched for this emoji — ‘Believe’ with Cristiano Ronaldo. I knew I could do something special. Normally, I wake up at 8, but today I got up at 6am. From that moment, I believed I could do it. I made it my wallpaper. Belief is very important,” Siraj said, crediting the football legend’s mindset for inspiring his own.

Also READ: Herschelle Gibbs mocks ICC Chairman Jay Shah after India’s thrilling 6-run win over England at The Oval

Siraj’s bowling brilliance in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025

Siraj’s heroics at The Oval capped off a remarkable series for the Hyderabad pacer. He finished with 23 wickets — the most by any bowler in the series — equalling Jasprit Bumrah’s record for the most wickets taken by an Indian in a Test series. His five-wicket haul in the final innings not only dismantled England’s batting lineup but also showcased his ability to thrive under immense pressure. With this performance, Siraj has firmly established himself as one of India’s premier fast bowlers and a key figure in their overseas success.

Also READ: ENG vs IND: Mohammed Siraj’s heartfelt reaction after guiding India to series-levelling win at The Oval

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