Pace spearhead Mohammed Siraj became the latest Indian bowler to claim 200 international wickets across formats on Day 2 of the fifth and final Test at The Oval. Siraj achieved the feat during a spirited bowling performance that helped India claw back into the contest after England’s brisk start.

The 30-year-old seamer brought up his 200th scalp in his 101st international appearance. Across all formats, he has now taken 202 wickets at an average of 29.06 and an economy of 4.11, with his career-best figures of 6 for 15 coming against Australia. His rise has been marked by consistent performances overseas, and his four five-wicket hauls in Tests have all come outside Asia, in Australia, England, South Africa, and the West Indies.

Siraj played a pivotal role in India’s comeback effort on Friday, removing three key English batters, captain Ollie Pope, world No.1 Test batter Joe Root, and debutant Jacob Bethell, all trapped LBW. His incisive spells were instrumental in halting England’s momentum, after they had raced to 109 for 1 in the first session.