Siraj gets emotional: Credits Kohli for support ahead of RCB clash

Mohammed Siraj is set for a fresh start in IPL 2025 with Gujarat Titans after years with Royal Challengers Bengaluru. He faces an emotional challenge as he prepares to play against his former team on April 2.

Siraj credited Virat Kohli for shaping his career, especially during tough times in 2018 and 2019. “Virat backed me, even retained me, and after that, my performance improved,” Siraj told ANI. He admitted leaving RCB was emotional but remained focused on his new journey.

During his RCB stint, Siraj became the team’s third-highest wicket-taker with 83 wickets in 87 matches. His best season came in 2023, where he took 19 wickets at an economy of 7.50. However, despite strong performances, he never won the IPL title with RCB.

Now with Gujarat Titans, Siraj looks forward to a new chapter. “Training is going well with my teammates, and our bowling unit has a solid plan,” he said. Gujarat Titans, IPL 2022 champions, struggled in 2024, finishing eighth under new skipper Shubman Gill. They hope Siraj’s pace strengthens their bowling attack this season.