Mohammed Siraj lit up the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad with a match-winning performance that reminded fans exactly why he’s considered one of India’s premier fast bowlers. Turning out for the Gujarat Titans, Siraj was at his fiery best, claiming 4 wickets for just 17 runs—his best figures in the ongoing edition of the Indian Premier League—as his side cruised to a seven-wicket win over Sunrisers Hyderabad.
His performance wasn’t just about skill, but also emotion. The homecoming to Hyderabad clearly meant something extra for the 31-year-old pacer, especially with his family cheering him on from the stands.
“When you come to your home ground, it’s a special feeling. My family was there in the crowd, and that lifted me up,” Siraj said during the post-match presentation, his joy evident after being named Player of the Match.
Reflecting on his journey, Siraj spoke about the growth he’s undergone since his early days with Royal Challengers Bangalore.
“I have played for seven years for RCB. I have worked hard on my bowling and also on my mindset, it’s working well for me,” he added.
Siraj’s resurgence hasn’t come easy. After being dropped post the Border-Gavaskar series loss in Australia and missing out on India’s victorious Champions Trophy 2025 campaign, doubts crept in. But he channeled his frustration into progress.
“At one time, I was not able to digest it, but I kept my spirits up and worked on my fitness and game. Whatever mistakes I was making, I worked on those and I’m enjoying my bowling,” he remarked.
What could’ve broken him instead became his turning point. Through setbacks and self-doubt, Siraj has roared back—and Hyderabad witnessed that firsthand.
