Indian fast bowler Mohammed Siraj has looked far behind his usual best after he pulled up his hamstring midway through an over during the second Test against South Africa at Wanderers. He lost his intensity rhythm and struggled to trouble the batters, also losing plenty of pace.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli, who himself wasn’t a part of the second Test due to a back spasm, appeared in the press conference before the final Test in Cape Town. Kohli mentioned in the press conference that he is not match-ready for the next Test, and a call will be taken soon regarding his position. He also confirmed that it was just a niggle, which means India could opt for a precautionary rest with regards to Siraj.

“Siraj is obviously recovering from the (hamstring) niggle he had in the last game and at present, I don’t think he is match-ready to take the field in the third Test. You cannot obviously risk a guy who is not at 110 percent as a fast bowler and we know how important that is as the little niggle he had can extend into an injury,”

Kohli said.  

The Indian Test skipper also added that a discussion will take place between the head coach, himself and the vice-captain to discuss his stance, and if a fast bowler isn’t ”110% fit”, it wouldn’t be wise to start him. Ishant Sharma could enter the squad if Siraj doesn’t clear the fitness doubts lurking around him, which wouldn’t be a bad addition considering the wealth of experience Sharma brings.

India are on the verge of achieving history in Cape Town, as they aim to win their first-ever Test series in South Africa since touring them for the first time in 1992. Their victory in Centurion was just their fourth Test win in the Safari lands, which does not make for good reading.

However, with the hosts themselves battling so many issues currently, the door is wide open for the side to try and get this win.

India have defeated Australia away and also lead in the five-match Test series in England, giving them further motivation to get this elusive win.