NEWS
Follow UsMohammed Siraj has been in top form in recent times, not just in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), but has also shown his growth in the Indian side. Having made his Test debut in Australia, in Melbourne, the fast bowler finished as his side's leading wicket-taker with 13 scalps at 29.53. Siraj has been picked in India's squad for the World Test Championship (WTC) final and the consequent five-match series against England. The Hyderabad quick says that he is indebted to his captain Virat Kohli for showing faith in his abilities and backing him.
"I had lost my father during the Australia series. I was shattered and not really in my senses. It was Virat bhaiya who gave me strength and support. Mera career Virat bhaiya ke wajah se hai (I owe my career to Virat)" Siraj told TimesofIndia.com.
"He (Virat) has supported me through thick and thin. He has always been there for me and in all circumstances. I still remember how I was crying in the hotel room. Virat bhaiya came into my room and hugged me tightly and said - 'I am with you, don't worry.' Those words encouraged me a lot. He (Virat) played just one Test on the tour but his messages and calls motivated me. And that's why I could perform. In fact, I didn't have a good season with RCB in the past two years. But he (Virat) was always there to support me. He has backed me a lot," the 27-year-old further said.
Siraj revealed that Kohli continued to encourage him even during the recent IPL. "Recently, after our match against CSK, Virat bhaiya came and said 'Miaan.. tumhare mein jo changes aaye hain.. those are amazing' (The changes you have brought about in your bowling are amazing). It will be benefitting our team. Be ready for the England tour. All the best. Keep up the good work. These words from one of the best captains in the world motivate me a lot," the pacer said.
In the presence of Ishant Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami in the ix for a place in the XI in the WTC final, it would be interesting to see if India play Siraj as the fourth seamer at Southampton.