Mohammed Siraj, a name synonymous with fiery pace, relentless determination, and an inspiring rags-to-riches story, has emerged as one of India’s most exciting fast bowlers in modern cricket. From the streets of Hyderabad to the international cricket stage, Siraj’s journey is a testament to hard work, resilience, and an unwavering passion for the game. This article delves into his life, career, recent performances, off-field ventures, and the questions fans have been asking about him online, providing a comprehensive look at the man behind the “Miyaan Magic.”
Early Life and Background
Born on March 13, 1994, in Hyderabad, Telangana, Mohammed Siraj grew up in a modest family. His father, Mohammed Ghaus, was an auto-rickshaw driver, and his mother, Shabana Begum, was a homemaker. Financial struggles were a constant in Siraj’s early life, and cricket was a luxury his family could barely afford. Despite these challenges, Siraj’s love for the game was sparked in the gullies of Hyderabad, where he played tennis-ball cricket with friends.
Siraj’s early cricketing days were far from glamorous. With no formal coaching or access to top-tier facilities, he relied on raw talent and sheer determination. He would often play with a worn-out bat and a tennis ball, dreaming of one day representing India. His elder brother, Mohammed Ismail, played a pivotal role in encouraging him to pursue cricket seriously, recognizing his potential as a fast bowler.
Breaking into the Domestic Circuit
Siraj’s breakthrough came when he started playing leather-ball cricket for the Charminar Cricket Club in Hyderabad. His raw pace and ability to swing the ball caught the attention of local coaches. In 2015, he made his debut for Hyderabad in the Ranji Trophy, India’s premier domestic first-class competition. His performances in the 2016-17 Ranji Trophy season, where he took 41 wickets in nine matches, put him on the radar of selectors and IPL scouts.
IPL Stardom with Royal Challengers Bangalore
Siraj’s big break came in 2017 when he was picked up by Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for a whopping INR 2.6 crore. Although his initial IPL stint was modest, his move to Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in 2018 marked a turning point. Under the mentorship of Virat Kohli and the guidance of RCB’s coaching staff, Siraj honed his skills, developing into a lethal pace bowler.
His standout IPL moment came in 2020 against Kolkata Knight Riders, where he delivered a fiery spell of 3/8 in four overs, including two maidens, earning him the Player of the Match award. This performance showcased his ability to bowl with pace, precision, and aggression, cementing his reputation as a bowler to watch.
International Debut and Breakthrough
Siraj made his international debut in a T20I against New Zealand in November 2017, but it was in Test cricket that he truly made his mark. His Test debut came during the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, a series that would define his career.
Stepping into the shoes of senior pacers like Mohammed Shami and Umesh Yadav, Siraj rose to the occasion, taking 13 wickets in three Tests, including a five-wicket haul in Brisbane. His emotional celebration after dismissing Nathan Lyon, dedicating it to his late father who had passed away during the tour, touched the hearts of cricket fans worldwide.
Since then, Siraj has been a mainstay in India’s Test squad, known for his ability to bowl long spells, generate bounce, and swing the ball both ways. His partnership with Jasprit Bumrah has been a cornerstone of India’s pace attack, making them one of the most formidable bowling units in world cricket.
Recent Performances and Career Stats (2024-2025)
As of July 2025, Siraj’s Test career has been a mix of highs and lows. In 2024, he played 13 Test matches and took 35 wickets at an average of 32 and a strike rate of 51, numbers that reflect a dip in form compared to his earlier exploits.
Critics, including former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif, have pointed out that Siraj’s bowling has lacked the “zip” and consistency that defined his early career, particularly in red-ball cricket. In the first Test against England in 2025 at Leeds, Siraj managed only two wickets in 41 overs, drawing scrutiny for his inability to make an impact on a pitch that offered little to bowlers.
Despite these challenges, Siraj’s resilience shone through in the second Test at Edgbaston, where he was part of India’s playing XI. However, his batting contribution was minimal, scoring 8 runs before being stumped by Jamie Smith off Shoaib Bashir. His bowling in the series has been under pressure, especially with Jasprit Bumrah absent for the second Test, placing Siraj in the role of senior pacer.
Joharfa: Siraj’s Culinary Venture
In a significant off-field milestone, Siraj launched his first restaurant, Joharfa, in Hyderabad in July 2025. The restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring Mughlai, Persian, Arabian, and Chinese cuisines, reflecting Siraj’s love for food and his desire to give back to his hometown. Located in the heart of Hyderabad, Joharfa has been well-received, with Siraj joining the ranks of cricketers like Sachin Tendulkar and Sourav Ganguly who have ventured into the restaurant business. In a press release, Siraj expressed his gratitude to Hyderabad, stating, “Hyderabad gave me my identity, and this restaurant is my way of giving something back to a place where people can come together, share a meal, and enjoy flavours that feel like home.”
Personal Challenges and Resilience
Siraj’s personal life has not been without challenges. In 2025, his estranged wife, Hasin Jahan, made headlines with allegations of financial neglect, claiming that Siraj had failed to provide support for her and their daughter. These claims added to the public scrutiny Siraj has faced, but he has remained focused on his cricket and off-field ventures, choosing not to engage publicly with the controversy.
Siraj’s ability to overcome personal and professional setbacks is a hallmark of his character. The loss of his father during the 2020 Australia tour was a devastating blow, yet Siraj chose to stay with the team, delivering performances that earned him widespread admiration. His emotional journey, from a humble background to international stardom, resonates with fans who see him as an embodiment of the Indian dream.
The Broken Bat Incident: A Lighthearted Moment
One of the most talked-about moments involving Siraj in 2025 was the “broken bat” incident during India’s net session ahead of the second Test against England at Edgbaston. On June 29, 2025, Siraj discovered that his bat had broken during practice, leading to a dramatic outburst where he angrily asked, “Who broke my bat, yaar?” The moment quickly turned humorous as Siraj broke into laughter, lightening the mood in the dressing room. The incident, captured on video, went viral, resonating with fans for its relatability and Siraj’s ability to find humor in a tense situation.
This episode highlighted Siraj’s efforts to improve his batting, a focus area for India’s lower-order players after their struggles in the first Test. Head coach Gautam Gambhir’s emphasis on every run counting in Test cricket has pushed Siraj to work on his batting skills, though his contributions with the bat remain limited.
Performance Analysis: What’s Ailing Siraj?
Loss of “Miyaan Magic”: Siraj’s nickname, “Miyaan Magic,” stems from his ability to produce game-changing spells with his pace and aggression. However, in 2024-25, critics have noted a lack of consistency in his Test performances. His average of 32 and strike rate of 51 in 2024 are respectable but pale in comparison to his earlier highs, such as the 6/15 against South Africa. Mohammad Kaif’s critique that Siraj needs to “bowl with his mind” and focus on line and length highlights a tactical issue: Siraj’s tendency to overattack can lead to wayward bowling.
Pressure as Senior Pacer: With Jasprit Bumrah absent for the second Test against England in 2025, Siraj was thrust into the role of senior pacer, a responsibility he struggled to fulfill. His inability to take wickets consistently in the first Test, where England chased down 371, raised questions about his ability to lead the attack. The return of Bumrah for the third Test at Lord’s could ease the pressure, but Siraj’s form remains a concern for India’s team management.
Batting Woes: Siraj’s batting has been a weak link, with scores of 3 not out and a golden duck in the first Test against England. His efforts to improve his batting, as seen in the net sessions at Edgbaston, are commendable, but his technique has drawn criticism. The broken bat incident, while humorous, underscored the team’s focus on improving lower-order contributions, a directive likely coming from Gautam Gambhir.
Public Perception and Social Media Sentiment
Fan Support and Criticism: On platforms like X, Siraj remains a polarizing figure. Fans celebrate his passion and past performances, with posts highlighting his 6/15 in South Africa and 5/60 in Australia as proof of his talent. However, others have been critical, with some questioning his place in the Test side due to his recent form. One X post went as far as to claim that Siraj’s inclusion is due to “minority quota” rather than merit, a controversial sentiment that sparked debate.
Viral Moments: The broken bat incident has added to Siraj’s social media presence, with fans appreciating his ability to laugh off setbacks. Videos of his fiery on-field confrontations, such as sledging England’s Ben Stokes, also trend frequently, showcasing his competitive spirit.
What Lies Ahead for Mohammed Siraj?
The Road to Redemption: The ongoing England series is a make-or-break moment for Siraj. With Bumrah set to return for the third Test at Lord’s, Siraj has an opportunity to learn from his senior partner and regain his form. Improving his consistency and adapting to different pitch conditions will be key to silencing his critics.
IPL 2025 and Beyond: Siraj’s non-retention by RCB ahead of the IPL 2025 season raised eyebrows, with some attributing it to his inconsistent form. However, his performances in domestic leagues and his reputation as a fiery pacer make him a hot prospect for the IPL auction. A strong IPL season could boost his confidence and pave the way for a Test comeback.
Off-Field Growth: Joharfa’s success could mark the beginning of Siraj’s entrepreneurial journey. His ability to balance cricket with business ventures shows maturity and a forward-thinking approach, ensuring a stable future beyond the sport.
FAQs
How has Mohammed Siraj performed in the IPL?
Siraj has been one of the most impactful bowlers in the IPL, particularly with RCB. His ability to bowl in the death overs and pick wickets regularly has made him a vital asset for the team. His pace and variations have earned him praise from players and commentators alike.
What is Mohammed Siraj’s current form and fitness status?
As of the latest updates, Siraj continues to be an integral part of India’s pace attack. He has maintained good fitness levels and has been regularly selected across all formats. For the latest match-by-match performance, fans often check IPL and international cricket updates.
How did Mohammed Siraj rise to prominence?
Siraj’s journey is inspirational coming from humble beginnings in Hyderabad, he worked hard in domestic cricket, impressing selectors with his pace and skills. His breakthrough came after consistent performances in Ranji Trophy and IPL, leading to his selection in the national team.
What are fans saying about Mohammed Siraj on social media and YouTube?
Fans admire Siraj’s passion, resilience, and match-winning spells. His bowling videos, especially during IPL and Test matches, get millions of views on YouTube. Many cricket analysts praise his ability to handle pressure and bowl in crucial moments.
In Summary
Mohammed Siraj’s journey from a Hyderabad street cricketer to an international star is a story of grit, talent, and heart. While his recent Test form has been under scrutiny, his past performances, such as the iconic spells in Australia and South Africa, prove that he has the potential to be a world-class pacer. Off the field, his restaurant venture and ability to handle personal challenges with grace make him a role model for aspiring cricketers.
As fans continue to search for his highlights, emotional stories, and updates on YouTube, Siraj remains a beloved figure in Indian cricket, with the promise of more “Miyaan Magic” to come. Whether he’s fuming over a broken bat or celebrating a wicket with his trademark passion, Mohammed Siraj continues to capture the imagination of cricket fans worldwide. With the right guidance and a bit of luck, he could yet reclaim his place as India’s pace spearhead.
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