New Delhi: Mohammad Siraj, who comes from a modest family in Hyderabad, faced financial constraints from the start. His father, Mohammad Gaus, an auto-rickshaw driver, had a dream for his son to excel at cricket despite the odds. Despite the family’s limited resources, young Mohammad Siraj’s determination remained unwavering.
His cricketing career began at a young age, playing with a tennis ball and using his father’s meager allowance for fuel and cricket practice. During these formative years, he relied on his trusty Platina bike. Despite the challenges, Siraj’s talent shone through, earning him recognition while playing local cricket for Hyderabad.
Rising Through The Ranks
Mohammad Siraj’s ascent began with the Hyderabad Under-19 team and continued with the senior and Ranji Trophy teams. However, his journey was fraught with challenges. His family’s financial struggles persisted, with his father providing a daily allowance of 100 rupees to support his cricketing endeavors. Undeterred, he made the most of his limited resources, riding his faithful Platina bike to practice.
Siraj’s prowess was on full display during the 2016-17 Ranji Trophy season, when he emerged as Hyderabad’s leading wicket-taker. His impressive performances continued in the 2017-18 Vijay Hazare Trophy, catapulting him into the national spotlight.
IPL Debut And National Call-Up
Mohammad Siraj made his IPL debut for the Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2017, before moving on to the Royal Challengers Bangalore. Siraj thrived under Virat Kohli’s mentorship at RCB. His incredible achievement of bowling two maiden overs in a single IPL match during the 2020 season cemented his place in history. His performances attracted the attention of BCCI selectors. Siraj earned his first T20 International cap against New Zealand in November 2017.
Regardless of his talent, self-doubt set in. Siraj considered retiring from cricket in 2019, following a series of setbacks. However, this was where his mental fortitude shined through. He persevered, and his efforts were rewarded later that year with a call-up to the Indian team for the one-day international series against Australia.
Mohammad Siraj: Crucial Performances And Personal Losses
A watershed moment in Mohammad Siraj’s career occurred during India’s tour of Australia in 2020-21. Siraj was called up to the Test team due to Mohammed Shami’s injury, and he not only demonstrated his bowling prowess but also exhibited tremendous courage. His outstanding performance at the Gabba, where he became India’s leading wicket-taker in the series, left an indelible mark. However, it was his emotional moment during the national anthem, with tears welling up in his eyes, that struck a chord with cricket fans worldwide.
Siraj played a poignant one-day international against New Zealand in his hometown of Hyderabad in 2023. This moment, witnessed by family, friends, and fans, represented his rise from humble beginnings to international acclaim. The fact that his mother and family were moved by the occasion spoke volumes about his triumph over adversity.
World Cup 2023: A Defining Moment
The 2023 World Cup marked a watershed moment in Siraj’s career. His fiery spells throughout the tournament, particularly his dominant performance against Sri Lanka in the final, demonstrated his mettle. He contributed significantly to India’s victory, taking 6 wickets for 21 runs. Siraj, known for his aggressive bowling style and ability to take crucial wickets, emerged as a match-winner on the international stage.
An Inspirational Journey
From humble beginnings to international acclaim, his story resonates with aspiring cricketers and people facing challenges. Mohammad Siraj’s legacy as a true cricketing hero is well established, and his future achievements are eagerly anticipated.