While it may look unusual to casual viewers, the sight of a fast bowler operating with a damaged or cut-open toe area is neither new nor accidental. In fact, several quicks deliberately choose to bowl in such footwear, and there are very practical reasons behind the unusual choice.

The opening morning belonged to the visitors after Temba Bavuma opted to bat first on a pitch expected to assist the pacers early on. South Africa's openers, Ryan Rickelton and Aiden Markram, began positively, with Rickelton doing most of the scoring as India's fast bowlers searched for rhythm. Amidst all the action, cameras frequently picked up Siraj's front-foot boot-its toe region noticeably torn-leaving fans curious about the purpose behind it.

For frontline pacers, the landing foot takes the biggest brunt of the delivery stride. The impact is so forceful that the pressure often damages the toe area of the shoe. However, many bowlers intentionally allow that part of the boot to wear out because it improves certain aspects of their action. A softened or torn toe box helps the foot drag more smoothly across the surface, giving the bowler better stability during follow-through. This reduces the jolt felt on landing, allowing for a more fluid motion and, in some cases, better control.

There's also a comfort factor involved. New, stiff shoes can put excessive strain on the big toe, leading to bruising or swelling-problems pacers know all too well. A worn-out boot bends more easily, easing pressure on the toe and reducing the risk of discomfort during long spells. Bowlers like Brett Lee and Mitchell Starc have famously preferred "broken-in" footwear for this very reason.

Some quicks simply stick with older shoes because they fit perfectly with their established muscle memory. A fresh pair, no matter how advanced, may feel tight, unnatural, or risky on landing. Additionally, a partially torn toe area can create a flatter landing surface, which helps bowlers who drag their foot frequently avoid slipping at the crease.

So while Siraj's boot may look battered, it's very much part of a tactical choice-one rooted in comfort, rhythm, and performance. And as the opening day unfolds, India will hope that this small but purposeful detail helps their spearhead make early inroads into South Africa's confident start. As of now the India star haven't been able to live up to the mark as he conceded 25 runs in 3 overs. At the time of writing this article, the Proteas were cruising at 57/0.