Mohammed Siraj surprised everyone with a thrilling late cameo as India secured a six-wicket victory over the Sri Lanka Cricket XI in their three-day warm-up match in Colombo on August 9, 2026.
Known primarily for his ability with the ball, Siraj showed an unexpected side of his game with the bat, smashing an unbeaten 32 runs from just 15 deliveries. His fearless hitting came at the perfect moment and helped India complete the chase in style at the Nondescripts Cricket Club Ground.
Siraj produces a stunning finish
With India closing in on victory, Siraj walked in and immediately looked determined to finish the game quickly. The pacer took the attack to the Sri Lankan bowlers and provided the entertainment the crowd had been waiting for.
The highlight of his innings came in the final over when Siraj smashed three consecutive sixes. The remarkable sequence turned what could have been a routine finish into an exciting conclusion, with Siraj remaining unbeaten as India crossed the winning target.
His 32 off 15 balls included some powerful strokes and showcased the confidence he has developed with the bat. Rather than simply defending his wicket, Siraj took the aggressive route and finished the contest in emphatic fashion.
India complete six-wicket win
Siraj’s late fireworks helped India register a six-wicket victory over the Sri Lanka Cricket XI in the practice game. The warm-up match provided India’s players with valuable match practice in Colombo and an opportunity to adjust to the conditions ahead of their upcoming assignments.
While the result of a warm-up game is not the primary focus, performances such as Siraj’s can provide plenty of confidence. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball adds another dimension to India’s lower order.
A memorable cameo from the pacer
Siraj’s unbeaten 32 may not have been the biggest score of the match, but it was certainly one of the most memorable innings. Coming in with the game nearing its conclusion, he wasted little time and turned the pressure into an opportunity to attack.
The three sixes in the final over were particularly eye-catching and quickly became the talking point of India’s victory. For a player better known for charging in with the ball and troubling batters with his pace and movement, seeing Siraj finish a chase with such confidence was a refreshing sight.
India will take plenty of positives from the warm-up game, while Siraj’s explosive cameo will add another interesting chapter to his growing reputation as a player capable of making an impact in unexpected situations.
