Indian fast bowler Mohammed Siraj playing with torn shoes in the first Test against South Africa at the Eden Gardens sparked curiosity and debate among cricket fans. The torn part near the toe area wasn’t accidental damage or wear and tear but a deliberate choice by Siraj, rooted in a long-standing fast bowling technique.
Reason behind Mohammed Siraj playing with torn shoes
The hole in the toe section of the shoe serves a practical purpose for fast bowlers, who endure intense physical demands during their run-up and delivery stride. Fast bowlers sprint up to the crease and suddenly halt their momentum at the point of delivery, putting significant pressure on the front of their shoes, especially the toe region. This repeated force often causes bruising to toenails or other foot injuries.
Cutting a hole in the toe area helps relieve this pressure, providing the toes with more space and preventing bruised nails or discomfort. The hole also allows the foot to drag more smoothly upon landing, offering a subtle improvement in stability and rhythm during the bowling action. This small alteration can make a considerable difference in a bowler’s comfort and performance on the field.
Notably, this isn’t unique to Siraj. Several renowned fast bowlers such as Shoaib Akhtar, Brett Lee and Ajit Agarkar have employed the same shoe modification technique during their careers, reflecting that this practical adjustment has proven effective for managing the rigors of fast bowling.
Siraj’s performance and the shoe incident
Despite an unsteady start conceding 25 runs in his first three overs in the Kolkata Test against South Africa, Siraj’s performance turned around significantly after a break on the field. Just before tea, as the ball began to reverse, Siraj delivered a fiery spell, dismissing key batters like Kyle Verreynne LBW and cleaning up Marco Jansen for a duck with a sharp nip-backer.
Though he initially conceded 34 runs in six overs, Siraj bounced back with an impressive 2 wickets for 13 runs in a 6-over spell leading up to the tea interval. His resilience on the field paralleled the symbolic toughness represented by his torn shoes.
MOHAMMED SIRAJ’S SHOES TOOK MORE BEATING THAN THE BATTERS! 😱👟
You won’t BELIEVE the wear & tear — the grind is REAL!#INDvsSA #TestCricket #Siraj #Cricket #EdenGarden #Possible11 pic.twitter.com/briwrdBtlq— Possible11 (@Possible11team) November 14, 2025
In essence, the torn shoes are a deliberate adaptation to the physical strains of fast bowling rather than a sign of neglect or damage. This age-old technique ensures fast bowlers like Siraj can bowl with better comfort and confidence, mitigating injury risks and helping maintain their rhythm.
