Team India Pace Bowler Mohammed Siraj broke the silence after being dropped by the team for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Gujarat Titans (GT) Pace admitted it failed to digest the snub after winning two consecutive player awards in the ongoing IPL 2025 season.
Mohammed Siraj was overlooked by the selectors despite Jasprit Bumrah being removed from the Champions Trophy due to injury. India went with Mohammed Shami, Ashdeep Singh and Harshit Rana. It is worth noting that the Rohit Sharma-led team has now become undefeated and unlocked the Champions Trophy title.
Mohammed Siraj clinches consecutive players for match awards at IPL 2025
Mohammed Shiraj bowled the fiery spell of the Gujarat Titans against Sunrise Hyderabad (SRH) on Sunday, April 6th.
The 31-year-old speedster, who previously won three wickets against Royal Challengers’ Bengaluru (RCB), was selected as a player in the match in the second game. He praised his home for his presence in his hometown for increasing his confidence.
Siraj was bought by the Gujarat Titans at IPL 2025 auction for 12.25 crores, justifying his price tag with a spell that won the back-to-back match. He is the second leading wicket taker in the tournament, averaging 13.78 and has nine wickets in four matches, with an economic rate of 7.75.
I couldn’t digest it – Mohammed Siraj
In a post-match presentation, Mohammed Siraj said he cannot miss the Champions Trophy team. Gujarat Titans Pacer said it focused on improving fitness and thinking after the disappointment.
“When you come to your hometown, it’s a special feeling. My family was in the crowd and that lifted me up,” Shiraj said (via the Hindustan Times).
“I played for RCB for seven years. I’ve worked hard in bowling, and I also worked well with my mindset. I couldn’t digest it at least once (I wasn’t chosen for the Champions Trophy), but I kept my spirits and worked on fitness and games,” he added.
I enjoy bowling – Mohammed Shiraj
Mohammed Siraj said he has corrected his past mistakes and enjoys the rhythm of bowling. He also said that the lack of selection raised doubts on his performance.
“No matter what the mistakes I have, I work on them and enjoy bowling,” Shiraj added.
“As an expert, when you are consistent with the Indian team, doubt grows into your mind (he is being dropped), but I was cheering myself up and looking forward to the IPL,” he continued.
“When not selected (for the Indian team), it goes beyond your heart (if you’re good enough). But I wanted to prepare for the IPL. When you run what you’re trying to deliver, you stay on top.
The Gujarat Titans secured a seven-wicket victory after a target of 153 runs in just 16.4 overs. Captain Shubmangill locked in the innings and led the team with an unbeaten 61 runs.
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