Mohammed Siraj's fiery spell stuns RCB, fuels redemption after Champions Trophy snub and IPL exit | CliqExplainer

Mohammed Siraj delivered a performance to remember against his former franchise, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, in IPL 2025, guiding Gujarat Titans to an emphatic eight-wicket victory. The fast bowler’s spell of 3/19 in four overs not only dismantled RCB’s top order but also made a strong statement, possibly driven by his omission from India’s Champions Trophy squad. Former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag lauded Mohammed Siraj’s intensity, highlighting the hunger and determination he displayed on the field.

Mohammed Siraj, who was not retained by RCB ahead of this season, made a memorable return to the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, ensuring his former team felt his absence. His opening spell was electric, removing Devdutt Padikkal for just four runs before dismissing Phil Salt with a peach of a delivery that shattered the off stump. Despite conceding a boundary to Virat Kohli in his first over, Mohammed Siraj bounced back in style, reducing RCB to 42/4 inside the powerplay and setting the tone for Gujarat’s dominant win.

Speaking on Cricbuzz, Virender Sehwag pointed out that Mohammed Siraj’s performance wasn’t just about proving a point to RCB but also about responding to his exclusion from the national team. “He maintained his record with the new ball in Chinnaswamy. He gave away only 12 or 13 runs in the first three overs. He could’ve probably bowled the fourth over at the same time and taken another wicket. He swings the new ball, and yesterday, he also got help from the wicket,” said Virender Sehwag.

Virender Sehwag also emphasized Mohammed Siraj’s mindset, stating, “He has that fire. And somewhere I feel he is hurt that he wasn’t part of the Champions Trophy squad. That’s what we expect from a young fast bowler. ‘Yeah, you didn’t pick me? Now I will show you.’ I hope he continues with the same intensity and makes a comeback in the Indian team.”

RCB, despite a fighting 54 from Liam Livingstone and some late fireworks from Tim David, could only post 169/8. In response, Jos Buttler, making up for his poor glovework earlier, smashed an unbeaten 73 off 39 balls, steering Gujarat to victory in just 17.5 overs.

For Mohammed Siraj, the match carried emotional significance. Having played seven years for RCB, he admitted feeling nervous before the game. “It was emotional because I played for seven years here,” he said after the match. “There was some nervousness and emotion, but I have belief that I can do well, irrespective of wherever I am playing, and that is my mindset.”

With this match-winning performance, Mohammed Siraj not only bolstered Gujarat Titans’ campaign but also sent a strong message to selectors, proving that he remains one of India’s most potent fast bowlers.

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