Mohammed Siraj – Who Is He and Why He Matters
If you follow Indian cricket, you’ve probably heard the name Mohammed Siraj a lot lately. The 27‑year‑old fast bowler from Hyderabad has become a key piece of India’s attack, thanks to his raw pace, swing and relentless work ethic. Whether you’re a die‑hard fan or just curious about new talent, here’s a quick guide to Siraj’s career, his strengths and what’s coming next.
How Siraj Rose to Fame
Siraj made his international debut in 2020, but his breakthrough came during the 2021‑22 overseas tour of New Zealand. He ripped through the Kiwi batting line‑up with a mix of seam movement and bounce, ending the series with 13 wickets at an impressive average of 22.00. That performance earned him a spot in India’s World Cup squad and the nickname “Siraj‑the‑Storm” among fans.
His domestic record is equally solid. In the IPL he’s turned out for Royal Challengers Bengaluru and later for Punjab Kings, clocking speeds over 145 km/h and picking up crucial middle‑order wickets. Those league games have helped him sharpen his variations – slower balls, cutters and yorkers – which are now staples in his arsenal.
What Makes Siraj Dangerous
First, pace. Siraj consistently hits the 140‑150 km/h range, giving him the ability to rush batsmen and force mistakes. Second, swing. He can swing the ball both ways with the new ball, especially in helpful conditions like England’s overcast days. Third, stamina. He’s known for bowling long spells without losing line or length, a quality coaches love in a Test bowler.
Another underrated skill is his mental toughness. After a tough start to his career – he was once dropped from the Under‑19 squad – Siraj fought back with extra training, even running 10 km daily to build fitness. That perseverance shows in his on‑field aggression; he never backs down from a challenge.
For fans looking at stats, Siraj’s numbers speak volumes. As of September 2025, he has taken 84 Test wickets at 27.30, 57 ODI wickets at 28.90, and 21 T20I wickets at 22.70. His strike rates are among the best for Indian pacers, indicating he gets a wicket roughly every 40‑50 balls.
What’s Next for Siraj?
The upcoming tour of England will be a big test. English pitches favor swing, and Siraj’s ability to move the ball both ways could make a real impact. He’s also expected to lead the pace attack in the next IPL season, where his experience will be vital for a young Punjab Kings lineup.
Off the field, Siraj is becoming a role model for aspiring cricketers from smaller towns. He often shares training videos on social media, stressing the importance of discipline and fitness. If you’re a budding bowler, copying his routine – early morning runs, targeted bowling drills, and consistent skill work – could be a good start.
In short, Mohammed Siraj is more than just a fast bowler; he’s a relentless competitor who blends raw speed with clever swing and a fierce mindset. Keep an eye on his performances this season – you’ll likely see him take wickets, break records and maybe even lead India to a historic series win.