Bhubaneswar: In a dramatic post-match twist, England head coach Brendon “Baz” McCullum reportedly wanted Mohammed Siraj to be crowned Player of the Series (POTS) instead of Shubman Gill, after the Indian pacer’s sensational performance on the final day of the fifth Test at The Oval.
Initially, McCullum had selected Gill—who had a stellar series with the bat—as his choice for the prestigious award. Broadcaster Mike Atherton had even prepared the presentation segment with questions ready for the young Indian batter, based on McCullum’s Day 4 selection.
However, Day 5 rewrote the script.
Mohammed Siraj delivered a game-changing performance, dismantling the English batting line-up with a fiery five-wicket haul and sealing a six-run victory for India. His impact was so significant that McCullum attempted to switch his vote mid-presentation preparation, according to inside reports.
Siraj’s Heroics Shift the Momentum
Siraj’s nine-wicket match haul not only won India the Test but also elevated him to the highest wicket-taker of the series with 23 scalps. With Jasprit Bumrah absent, Siraj stepped up as the leader of the bowling attack and consistently delivered crucial breakthroughs throughout the series.
Former India cricketer and commentator Dinesh Karthik endorsed McCullum’s revised pick, stating that Siraj’s relentless effort in a batter-dominated series was deserving of the accolade.
“In a series where batters grabbed most of the headlines, Siraj stood tall. He turned the match around and gave India that edge on the final day,” Karthik said during the post-match analysis.
McCullum’s Praise and Late Change of Mind
While Shubman Gill’s performance—754 runs in 10 innings—was undeniably outstanding, McCullum was reportedly swayed by Siraj’s match-winning impact under pressure. Sources indicate that he attempted to change his POTS nomination just 30–40 minutes before the presentation began, but it was too late to make alterations to the official broadcast script.
Still, McCullum was effusive in his praise for Siraj, reportedly calling his final spell “series-defining” and “inspirational,” acknowledging the fast bowler’s passion, aggression, and hunger.
Final Verdict
Ultimately, the Player of the Series honour went to Shubman Gill as initially planned. However, the behind-the-scenes drama and McCullum’s attempted last-minute switch underline the magnitude of Siraj’s performance and the recognition it garnered—even from the opposition’s head coach.
The series ended in a thrilling 2-2 draw, but the impact of Siraj’s final act will be remembered as one of the standout moments of the campaign.Bhuba
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