Introduction
File photo of Mohammed Siraj.
Unveiling the Snub: Mohammed Siraj’s Side of the Story
India’s celebrated fast bowler, Mohammed Siraj, has shared his heartfelt feelings on not being selected for the prestigious 2025 Champions Trophy. As the cricketing world praises India’s triumphant victory over New Zealand in the final, Siraj opens up about his personal setbacks and resilient comeback.
The Decision That Shook Siraj
Despite his commendable track record, Siraj faced a challenging phase due to a dip in form, which eventually led to his exclusion from the squad. India’s lineup boasted talents like Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh, and Harshit Rana, who collectively led the team to an unbeaten streak and championship glory.
Siraj’s Emotional Turmoil and Redemption
Siraj admitted the exclusion was a tough pill to swallow, stating, “For any professional, being part of an ICC event isn’t just an opportunity but a dream. I have long aspired to impact the Champions Trophy significantly. Initially, it was disheartening to miss out, but I focused on self-improvement and motivation.”
The Path to Self-Improvement
Post-snub, the fast bowler concentrated on enhancing his physical fitness and sought advice from his long-time trainer, Soham Desai. “In 2018, I was skeptical of Soham’s unconventional methods. However, his steadfast belief in sacrifice for success changed my perspective. His tailored fitness program became an integral part of my routine,” reflected Siraj.
Current Endeavors and Future Aspirations
As of now, Siraj hasn’t played in any limited-overs matches for India for nearly eight months, with his last appearance being in an ODI against Sri Lanka in August 2024. Despite these setbacks, he has been a vital player for the Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League 2025, claiming 11 wickets in just 7 matches, sporting an impressive economy rate of 8.96.
Final Thoughts
Mohammed Siraj remains a dedicated and passionate cricketer, eagerly looking forward to future opportunities to represent his country and prove his mettle on the international stage.
Related: Shreyas Iyer Reflects on Punjab Kings’ Strategic Missteps in Recent RCB Clash
Last Updated: April 20, 2025
