Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) pacer Mohammed Siraj is gearing up for the upcoming IPL 2024 season, but on his recent 30th birthday, he made a surprising revelation. In a video by the BCCI, Siraj shared that he contemplated giving up cricket altogether back in 2019-2020.
Difficult Beginnings for Mohammed Siraj
Mohammed Siraj, now a key player for India and a star attraction in the IPL, took fans on a nostalgic tour of his hometown Hyderabad. He spoke about Eidgah. This place, he says, brings him immense peace even after travelling the world for matches.
“There was a time in 2019-2020 when I thought I’d give myself one last year in cricket and then move on,” Siraj confessed. “Hyderabad is home, and Eidgah is the first place I want to visit whenever I’m back. It brings me so much solace.”
From Roti to Wickets: Journey of Perseverance
Siraj also shed light on his humble beginnings. He revealed that he used to work as a caterer to support his family. Back then, his father, the family’s primary breadwinner, drove an autorickshaw.
“I used to work at catering events, flipping rotis,” Siraj said. “My family encouraged me to focus on studies, but cricket was my passion. Even a hundred or two hundred rupees earned from the game made me happy. I’d contribute some money at home and keep a little for myself. It wasn’t easy, burning my hands on the hot griddle, but these struggles have made me who I am today.”
Mohammed Siraj story is one of resilience and the power of pursuing one’s dreams. From flipping rotis to taking crucial wickets, his journey is an inspiration for aspiring cricketers across the country.
