Mohammed Siraj in Fiery Form for Gujarat Titans Ahead of IPL 2025 | GT's Intra-Squad Match | GT's Practice 2025 IPL

Mohammed Siraj Rediscovers Rhythm in Gujarat Titans’ Intra-Squad Match Ahead of IPL 2025

Mohammed Siraj has bounced back in sensational fashion after his recent omission from India’s squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The fast bowler, who found himself among the stand-by players for the tournament, delivered a fiery spell during Gujarat Titans’ intra-squad practice match, sending a clear message to selectors and fans alike.

The 2025 IPL season marks a fresh chapter for Siraj, who made the high-profile switch from Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to Gujarat Titans for ₹12.25 crore. With his new franchise, the 30-year-old pacer is determined to reignite his career and establish himself as a premier fast bowler in the league.

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— Gujarat Titans (@gujarat_titans) March 20, 2025

Siraj’s Response to Champions Trophy Snub

For the first time in years, Siraj found himself out of India’s squad for a major ICC event. The decision raised eyebrows, with former cricketers like Aakash Chopra advocating for his inclusion, while Dinesh Karthik expressed his disappointment at the snub. Despite being India’s highest ODI wicket-taker from early 2022 to 2024, Siraj was left out of the Champions Trophy-winning squad.

The setback, however, appears to have fueled Siraj’s hunger. Determined to make an impact, the speedster showcased his full range of skills in Gujarat Titans’ intra-squad match, troubling batters with his sharp in-swingers, toe-crushing yorkers, and deceptive out-swingers. His performance in the practice game, where he dismantled both left- and right-handers with ease, was a reminder of his ability to dominate any opposition.

A Crucial Role for Gujarat Titans

Siraj’s move to Gujarat Titans comes at a time when the franchise is looking to bounce back from a disappointing IPL 2024 campaign. After winning the title in 2022 and finishing as runners-up in 2023, GT failed to reach the playoffs last season following Hardik Pandya’s departure. The addition of Siraj, along with fellow pacers Kagiso Rabada and Prasidh Krishna, strengthens their pace attack significantly.

Captain Shubman Gill is optimistic about Siraj’s impact. In a recent interview with JioHotstar, he highlighted the team’s depth in both batting and bowling. “We have some great fast bowlers. Rashid (Khan) is still with us, and we’ve added strong hitters like Jos Buttler, Rutherford, and Glenn Phillips. Indian players like Mahipal Lomror and Sai Sudharsan bring balance. Siraj will be key for us with the new ball,” Gill stated.

With Gujarat Titans relying heavily on their pace unit, Siraj is expected to take the lead with the new ball and deliver in crunch moments. His partnership with Rabada will be one to watch as the duo brings both speed and skill to the attack.

Siraj’s Journey: From RCB to GT

Siraj’s departure from RCB was one of the biggest surprises of the IPL 2025 mega auction. Having played for Bengaluru since 2018, the pacer was a vital cog in their bowling lineup. Across 87 matches, he picked up 83 wickets, making him the franchise’s third-highest wicket-taker, behind Harshal Patel and Yuzvendra Chahal.

His best IPL season came in 2023 when he claimed 19 wickets in 14 games, leading RCB’s attack with an economy of 7.50. However, despite four playoff appearances, Siraj never managed to lift the IPL trophy with Bengaluru. Now with Gujarat Titans, he will be hoping to finally get his hands on the coveted silverware.

What Makes Siraj a Key Player for GT

• New Ball Specialist: Siraj’s ability to swing the ball both ways makes him lethal in the powerplay overs.

• Death Overs Threat: His yorkers and pace variations make him a crucial weapon in the closing overs.

• Big Match Performer: Having starred in crucial overseas victories for India, Siraj has the temperament to deliver under pressure.

• Point to Prove: The Champions Trophy snub has given Siraj extra motivation to make a statement in IPL 2025.

Siraj’s IPL 2025

Gujarat Titans will begin their IPL 2025 campaign on March 25 against Punjab Kings at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. With Siraj in top form, all eyes will be on the pacer as he looks to dismantle batting lineups and propel GT towards another title challenge.

As the tournament unfolds, Siraj’s performances will not only determine Gujarat’s fate but could also reopen doors for him in India’s white-ball setup. For now, though, the fiery pacer is locked in and ready to bring his ‘Miyan Magic’ to IPL 2025.