The right-arm speedster had a disappointing season with Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2022, taking just 9 wickets in 15 games at an average of 57.11 and an economy of 10.08. Despite this, he is retained by the franchise for the next season.
However, instead of dwelling on the disappointment, Mohammed Siraj decided to use it as motivation to improve his white-ball bowling and change his career. He began working on his skills and when he started performing well in one or two One Day Internationals (ODIs), he gained the confidence to continue working on his game.
Siraj’s hard work paid off in the recent series against Sri Lanka, where he took 9 wickets at 10.22 and an economy rate of 4.05. He registered figures of 10-1-32-4 to bundle Sri Lanka out for 73 in Thiruvanthapuram on Sunday.
“When my IPL went downhill, I decided to work on my white-ball bowling and change my career. I started working on my skills, and when I did well in one or two ODIs, I got confidence,” he said.
The Hyderabad-born pacer added that he focuses on maintaining consistency in his line and length and strives for wickets even if he concedes runs. He also said that he doesn’t focus on results as long as he is consistent with his approach, which is what led to his improved performance.
“I want to be a satisfied bowler even if I don’t get wickets. The series worked well for me. I planned to get wickets with the new ball and put pressure on Sri Lanka. I didn’t mind giving away runs as wickets with the new ball can put the rivals under pressure,” Siraj said.
Siraj’s journey serves as an inspiration for other cricketers who may face disappointment in their careers, but use it as a boost to improve and succeed.