Full Name: Mohammed Siraj Date of Birth: March 13, 1994 Birthplace: Hyderabad, Telangana Teams: India National Team, Royal Challengers Bangalore (IPL), Hyderabad (domestic) Mohammed Siraj’s journey is not just a cricket story — it’s a powerful tale of grit, loss, and triumph. From bowling with a tennis ball in the narrow bylanes of Hyderabad to knocking down the world’s best batters in white flannels, Siraj's life is a story written with sweat and spirit. Born into a humble family, Siraj’s father was an auto-rickshaw driver and his mother a housemaid. Financial hardship loomed large, but his passion for cricket burned brighter. Without formal coaching early on, Siraj honed his natural pace and bounce playing street cricket. His breakthrough came when he joined the Charminar Cricket Club, and soon after, he impressed for Hyderabad in the 2016–17 Ranji Trophy, finishing as the team’s highest wicket-taker. The IPL 2017 auction turned his life around. Picked up by Sunrisers Hyderabad for ₹2.6 crore, Siraj didn’t just earn a contract — he earned respect. His pace, yorkers, and raw aggression stood out. But it was his move to Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) that brought consistency. Under Virat Kohli’s guidance, Siraj blossomed, especially during the IPL 2020 season, where he delivered match-winning spells including a rare maiden two-wicket over. Siraj made his T20I debut for India in 2017, followed by ODIs and eventually Tests. His real breakout moment came during India’s historic Test series win in Australia in 2020–21. After injuries to senior pacers, Siraj led India’s bowling attack in just his third Test. Amid immense personal loss — he had lost his father during the tour but chose to stay with the team — Siraj emerged as a warrior. His five-wicket haul at the Gabba sealed India’s iconic win, earning him national hero status. Siraj brings intensity to the field. His ability to bowl long, hostile spells and his never-say-die attitude make him a captain’s dream in red-ball cricket. In white-ball formats too, he has evolved. In January 2023, he rose to the No.1 spot in the ICC ODI rankings for bowlers, a testament to his growth and maturity. One of his career-best performances came in the 2023 Asia Cup Final, where Siraj dismantled Sri Lanka with figures of 6/21, including a four-wicket over — the joint-fastest five-wicket haul in ODIs. It was a spell that not only won India the title but showcased Siraj’s class with the new ball. Beyond numbers, Siraj’s personality shines — emotional, passionate, and loyal. He proudly dedicates his success to his late father, often looking skyward in moments of celebration. Known for his humility, he’s often seen giving back to his community in Hyderabad and supporting underprivileged cricketers. In a cricketing nation that thrives on fast bowling dreams, Mohammed Siraj stands as an inspiration. Not born into privilege or polished by academies, he carved his path with raw passion and earned every cheer with sweat. He is, quite simply, India’s lionhearted fast bowler.