Premier fast bowler Mohammed Siraj shared his heartfelt experience upon returning to M Chinnaswamy Stadium this season, albeit donning the colors of Gujarat Titans instead of Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Siraj, who was acquired during a major auction, showcased his exceptional bowling skills at a venue where he previously rose to prominence while playing for RCB. He delivered a remarkable performance, taking 3 wickets for just 19 runs in his four overs, ultimately earning the Player of the Match title.

Having spent seven years with RCB from 2018 to 2024, Siraj faced a significant change when the franchise opted not to retain him ahead of the 2025 mega auction. During his tenure with the Bengaluru team, he participated in 87 matches, securing 83 wickets at an average of 31.45, with his best bowling figures being 4/21.

The 31-year-old acknowledged the emotional weight of playing at the stadium in a blue jersey rather than RCB's traditional red. 

“I felt a bit emotional. I spent seven years here, switching from red to blue. There was some nervousness and emotion, but once I had the ball in my hand, I was fully focused,” Siraj remarked after receiving the Player of the Match accolade.

Siraj dominated the powerplay against his former team, dismissing Devdutt Padikkal and Phil Salt early in the innings, and celebrated with enthusiasm. He even performed football legend Cristiano Ronaldo's famous ‘siu’ celebration after taking the wickets, which he later explained.

“I am a fan of Ronaldo, which is why I celebrated that way,” Siraj responded when asked about his celebration.

The prominent pacer was not included in the Champions Trophy squad, which provided him with a break from cricket.

“Ashish Bhai tells me to go enjoy your bowling”

He disclosed that during the break, he concentrated on rectifying the errors he had been making.

"I had been performing consistently, but I took the opportunity during the break to address my mistakes and enhance my fitness," he stated.

The 31-year-old also shared how his experience working with Ashish Nehra and playing alongside veteran pacer Ishant Sharma has benefited his bowling skills.

"After being selected by the Gujarat Titans, I had a conversation with Ashish Bhai. He encourages me to enjoy my bowling, while Ishu (Ishant) Bhai advises me on the appropriate line and length to bowl. My approach is to maintain confidence, and then the pitch becomes irrelevant," he concluded.

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