Mohammed Siraj Joins Gujarat Titans for IPL 2023: A Farewell to RCB
Mohammed Siraj's Transition to Gujarat Titans
New Delhi [India] March 20: Mohammed Siraj is gearing up to represent the Gujarat Titans (GT) in the upcoming Indian Premier League season.
Reflecting on his time with the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Siraj shared heartfelt sentiments about Virat Kohli, acknowledging the significant role Kohli played in his career. He expressed that Kohli's support during challenging times was invaluable, making his departure from RCB an emotional experience.
Siraj joined RCB in 2018 for a sum of Rs 2.6 crore and has since participated in 87 matches, claiming 83 wickets with an average of 31.45. His best bowling figures stand at 4/21, making him the third-highest wicket-taker in RCB's history, following Harshal Patel and Yuzvendra Chahal.
“Honestly, Virat Kohli has been instrumental in my career. He stood by me during tough times, especially in 2018 and 2019, and his faith in me helped elevate my performance. Leaving RCB is truly emotional. I’m eager to see what happens when I face RCB on April 2,” Siraj remarked.
He also mentioned that his training with the pace attack at Gujarat Titans is going exceptionally well, emphasizing the team's ability to strategize effectively. “I’m enjoying my training sessions with my teammates, especially here at Gujarat Titans,” he added.
During his tenure with RCB, Siraj reached the playoffs four times but unfortunately did not secure a championship. The 2023 season marked his peak performance, where he took 19 wickets in 14 matches, averaging 19.74 with an economy rate of 7.50, including his best figures of 4/21.
In the previous season, Siraj managed to take 15 wickets in 14 matches at an average of 33.07. RCB made a remarkable comeback in the latter half of the season, turning their fortunes around from winning just one of their first eight matches to clinching six consecutive victories, thus securing a playoff spot.
However, their journey ended with a defeat against the Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the eliminator. Siraj's last competitive outing was against Vidarbha in January, where he took four wickets across both innings in a Ranji Trophy match.