Quick bowler Mohammed Siraj, one in every of India’s most constant and passionate performers lately, not too long ago opened up in regards to the darkish aspect of fame – on-line trolling and fan backlash. Talking on the Indian Specific Thought Alternate, Siraj recalled how fan reactions can shift in a single day, exposing him to immense psychological stress.
Mohammed Siraj opens up on on-line trolling and psychological struggles
Siraj, who emerged as one in every of India’s heroes through the 2025 Check collection in England by claiming 23 wickets in 5 matches, revealed how shortly admiration can flip into insult. Regardless of delivering probably the most memorable spells at The Oval, he admitted being damage by on-line feedback evaluating him to his father, a former auto-rickshaw driver. “If you carry out nicely, individuals name you the perfect. But when one sport goes flawed, they are saying, ‘Jaao auto chalao’ – as if all of your onerous work means nothing,” Siraj mentioned emotionally.
The pacer defined that the brutal nature of on-line criticism made him rethink how a lot exterior opinions mattered. “In a single sport you’re celebrated, and within the subsequent, you’re discarded. I spotted I need to focus solely on my household and teammates,” he shared. The assertion make clear how athletes, regardless of their success, stay weak to abuse and unrealistic expectations from followers.
Additionally READ: Mohammed Siraj shares the reality behind his Champions Trophy and Asia Cup snub
Siraj’s journey: From humble roots to world recognition
Siraj’s journey from the bylanes of Hyderabad to world cricket stardom is one constructed on resilience and relentless onerous work. The 31-year-old pacer’s rise is each inspiring and symbolic – the son of an auto driver who as soon as struggled to afford a correct pair of footwear, now stands amongst India’s best seamers. His relentless pursuit of excellence has already positioned him alongside legends like Kapil Dev and Jasprit Bumrah, each of whom achieved 20 or extra wickets in a number of Check collection.
Siraj’s standout performances in England throughout 2025 bolstered his repute as a match-winner abroad – a uncommon feat for any Indian pacer. His potential to swing the ball each methods, relentlessly preserve line and size, and ship deadly spells underneath stress has made him an indispensable asset in India’s red-ball setup. Followers and analysts alike hailed his self-discipline, particularly throughout India’s commanding victory over England at The Oval, the place Siraj’s tempo and aggression sealed the collection.
Nevertheless, even after such monumental success, Siraj admitted that he encountered moments of psychological breakdown attributable to harsh criticism. “The identical followers who reward you possibly can flip in opposition to you so shortly. That’s the fact of social media,” he mentioned. For Siraj, sustaining composure amid such negativity has turn into as necessary as getting ready for match conditions.
At the moment ranked fifteenth within the ICC Check bowling rankings, Siraj continues to spearhead India’s tempo assault. His latest seven-wicket haul in opposition to West Indies in Ahmedabad is additional proof of his consistency and progress. Past numbers, although, lies his resolve – to let his performances converse louder than the trolls.
Additionally READ: Robin Uthappa shares heartwarming response at Mohammed Siraj’s particular achievement
