In a candid and unexpectedly humorous moment that has gone viral in the cricketing world, veteran wicketkeeper and commentator Dinesh Karthik put rising pace star Mohammed Siraj on the spot with a cheeky but insightful question: “Why do you bowl better when Jasprit Bumrah isn’t playing?” Siraj’s spontaneous and unfiltered reply not only left Karthik in splits but also gave fans a glimpse into the dynamics of India’s fast-bowling unit.
The Question That Stumped Siraj — and Everyone Watching
The interaction took place during a post-match interview following a recent T20I where Siraj delivered a standout performance in Bumrah’s absence. Karthik, who has a reputation for asking bold questions with a touch of wit, decided to push the envelope. With a grin, he asked:
“You always seem to perform better when Jasprit Bumrah is not in the playing XI. Why is that?”
The question, though light-hearted, was rooted in statistics — Siraj has, on multiple occasions, stepped up as India’s pace spearhead when Bumrah has been rested or injured.
Siraj’s Raw and Hilarious Reply
Caught off guard but not one to shy away from honesty, Siraj smirked and responded:
“Arre bhai, when Bumrah is playing, who will look at me? Sab usi ko dekhte hain! (Brother, when Bumrah plays, no one even looks at me!)”
The reply drew laughter from the studio and applause from fans on social media. Siraj followed it up with a more serious note:
“On a serious note, Bumrah bhai is the leader of the attack. When he plays, I learn from him. But when he’s not there, I know I have to take more responsibility, and I like that challenge.”
A Glimpse Into India’s Fast Bowling Brotherhood
Siraj’s response sheds light on the unique bond and healthy competition that exists within India’s fast-bowling unit. While Jasprit Bumrah is widely regarded as the team’s strike bowler and one of the best in the world, Siraj has carved out a distinct identity — known for his fiery attitude, swing, and ability to pick wickets in all formats.
The absence of Bumrah often puts more pressure on Siraj to lead the attack, a role he has embraced with growing maturity. From his sensational spells in overseas Tests to his match-winning performances in white-ball cricket, Siraj has proved that he’s more than just a supporting act — he’s a star in the making.
The Stats Tell a Story Too
Interestingly, Siraj’s numbers do indicate stronger performances in games where Bumrah isn’t playing. Whether that’s due to more bowling responsibility, higher expectations, or the drive to prove himself without the shadow of India’s pace ace — it’s working in Siraj’s favor.
Cricket analysts have pointed out that Siraj averages lower and strikes more frequently in Bumrah-less lineups, making him a go-to man for India when their bowling resources are stretched.
Fan Reactions: Wit Meets Wisdom
Fans on social media loved the interaction, with many praising Siraj’s honesty and Dinesh Karthik’s fearless interviewing style. Memes, gifs, and clips of the moment flooded X (formerly Twitter), with one user writing:
“Only DK can ask that, and only Siraj can answer like that!”
Another chimed in, “That’s the most Mohammed Siraj answer ever — funny, honest, and full of heart.”
The exchange between Dinesh Karthik and Mohammed Siraj was more than just comic relief — it was a window into the mentality of a fast bowler who’s stepping up under pressure and thriving in leadership roles. As India continues to develop a world-class pace attack, moments like these remind fans that behind the numbers and performances are personalities that make the sport richer, more relatable, and undeniably entertaining.
Whether with or without Bumrah, one thing’s for sure — Mohammed Siraj is here to stay, and he’s not afraid to say it like it is.
