Indian fast bowler Mohammed Siraj said Virat Kohli really supported him when he wasn’t doing well back in 2018 and 2019. He also said it was tough leaving Royal Challengers Bengaluru for the Gujarat Titans after getting picked in the IPL 2025 auction.
Siraj has been a key part of Bengaluru’s fast bowling for the past six years. Now, he has to get used to a new team but still has strong feelings for his old team and Kohli.
Thinking about his time in Bengaluru, Siraj said Kohli was a big part of his success, especially during the rough patches in the Indian Premier League.
“Honestly, Virat Kohli played a huge part in my career. He stood by me when I was struggling in 2018 and 2019. He kept me on the team, and after that, my game got better, Siraj told ANI.
“He’s been a big help. It’s tough to leave RCB. We’ll see what happens when I play against RCB. The game is on April 2, Siraj added.
— Mohammed Siraj (@mdsirajofficial) March 20, 2025
Siraj leaving Bengaluru is the end of an era for a bowler who became the team’s third-highest wicket-taker.
In 87 games, Siraj took 83 wickets, with an average of 31.45 and his best performance being 4/21.
Siraj’s best season was two years ago when he grabbed 19 wickets in 14 games, averaging 19.74 with an economy rate of 7.5.
Even though he had ups and downs with RCB, Siraj is looking forward to training with Gujarat.
“My training is going great with the other fast bowlers, and our bowling group knows how to make plans and carry them out. I feel good training with everyone, especially here at Gujarat Titans, Siraj said.
Gujarat, known for having a good all-around team, is hoping Siraj’s speed and accuracy will make their bowling even better.
The team won the title in their first season in 2022 with Hardik Pandya as captain and made it to the final the following year with him too.
