Mohammed Siraj’s cricketing career took a massive turn-around after he got picked in the Indian squad for their on-going Australian tour in 2020. The 26-year-old pacer, who was repeatedly criticized for his poor bowling in the Dream11 Indian Premier League, proved out to be a sound bowler for the “Men in Blue”. Siraj was handed a chance to bowl in the second Test at Melbourne where he was brought-in as injured Mohammed Shami’s replacement.
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IND vs AUS: Siraj explains the reason behind his tears
Credits to his decent performance in his maiden Test, Mohammed Siraj was retained in India’s playing XI in the Sydney Test as well which began on Thursday, January 7. Before the commencement of Day 1, Siraj was spotted crying during India’s national anthem. Playing for India meant a lot for the bowler, as it was his late father’s dream to watch him play for his country.
“I remembered my dad during the national anthem, it was very emotional. My dad always wanted me to play Test cricket. If he were here today, he would have seen me playing for India,” said Siraj during the virtual press conference.
Mohammed Siraj on why he got so emotional while the National Anthem was being played at the SCG.#TeamIndia #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/zo0Wc8h14A
— BCCI (@BCCI) January 7, 2021
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IND vs AUS: Former Cricketers hail Siraj’s patriotism
Even if there’s little or no crowd to cheer you on, no better motivation than playing for India. As a legend once said “You don’t play for the crowd, you play for the country.” 🇮🇳 #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/qAwIyiUrSI
— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) January 7, 2021
I just want certain people to remember this picture. He is #SirajMohammed and this is what the national anthem means to him pic.twitter.com/eJi9Xeww8E
— Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) January 7, 2021
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