Mohammed Siraj opens up on missing Asia Cup and Champions Trophy

Mohammed Siraj has always been a bowler who wears his heart on his sleeve. From his emotional debut to his rise as one of India’s premier fast bowlers, the Hyderabad pacer’s journey has been about grit, patience, and unwavering belief. Yet, despite being among the most consistent performers across formats, Siraj found himself on the sidelines during two major white-ball tournaments this year, the ICC Champions Trophy in Dubai and the Asia Cup 2025.

Clear Communication Over Confusion

In a candid conversation with Express Sports, Siraj finally shared what went on behind the scenes. The 30-year-old clarified that there were no misunderstandings or disappointments, only open communication and respect between him and the team management.

“I’m 200 per cent confident of doing well in all three formats when given a chance,” Siraj said. “We played the Champions Trophy in Dubai, there was heat, and we needed more spinners there, that’s why I wasn’t picked. Rohit (Sharma) bhai told me that most of the bowling would be done by spinners and he didn’t want me to go there and just sit on the bench. He told me to spend time with family, practise and work on my fitness.”

Such clarity, Siraj said, made it easier to accept the decision. For a player who thrives on rhythm and confidence, understanding the team’s needs mattered more than being part of every squad.

Rested, Not Dropped

Siraj’s absence from the Asia Cup 2025 also had a simple explanation workload management. After a draining five-Test series in England, where he finished as India’s top wicket-taker, the management wanted to ensure the pacer was fresh for the long season ahead.

“The Asia Cup was right after we had returned from the five Tests in England, so it was an opportunity to rest a bit,” Siraj revealed. His words reflected a mature understanding of the demands of modern cricket where rest can sometimes be as vital as performance.

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Back With a Bang

Any doubts about rust or lost momentum were silenced when Siraj returned for the first Test against the West Indies in Ahmedabad. The right-arm quick was relentless, dismantling the visitors with pace and movement. He finished the match with seven wickets, four in the first innings and three in the second, guiding India to an emphatic innings-and-140-run victory at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

Siraj’s fiery performance was a reminder of why he remains central to India’s red-ball plans. Now, with the second Test in Delhi starting October 10, he looks eager to extend his purple patch.

Focused and Grounded

Siraj’s story continues to be one of perseverance. Rather than being disheartened by non-selection, he turned the breaks into opportunities for improvement, a mindset that sets him apart in an era where players often struggle to accept rotation and rest. “I just focus on my process,” Siraj said earlier this year. “Whether I’m playing or not, my job is to stay ready. When the team needs me, I’ll be there to deliver.”

As India’s pace arsenal keeps evolving under Rohit Sharma, Mohammed Siraj’s blend of aggression, maturity, and self-awareness makes him one of the most dependable bowlers in world cricket, ready for any challenge that comes his way.