Key Highlights:
Ahmedabad, April 2
Mohammed Siraj, now wearing the Gujarat Titans jersey in IPL 2025, delivered a stellar performance against his former team Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). On Wednesday, at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Siraj picked up the early wickets of Devdutt Padikkal and Phil Salt, giving GT a dream start in their key fixture.
It was a fitting display from the Hyderabad-born speedster, who was bought by GT for a massive ₹12.25 crore in the IPL 2025 mega auction. With the tournament heating up, Siraj’s performance not only reignited conversations about his capabilities but also reminded fans why he is lovingly referred to as ‘DSP’ Siraj.
A Thunderous Return Against RCB
Facing the team that gave him his first big break in the IPL, Siraj looked fiery from the first over. His precise line and length troubled the RCB openers, and within the first few overs, Devdutt Padikkal was sent back, followed shortly by Phil Salt, RCB’s aggressive overseas batter.
The double strike tilted early momentum in GT’s favor, showcasing why the franchise placed such a huge financial bet on him in the recent auction.
Why Fans Call Him DSP Siraj
While Siraj’s bowling prowess is widely respected, many fans affectionately refer to him as DSP — a title that’s not just symbolic. On October 11, 2024, the Telangana government honored Mohammed Siraj with the honorary rank of Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) for his achievements in cricket.
Despite not holding a graduate degree — a mandatory qualification for the post — Siraj was granted a special exemption, acknowledging his outstanding contributions to Indian cricket on the global stage.
This gesture resonated deeply with his fans, many of whom see Siraj’s journey as a powerful story of grit, perseverance, and national pride.
“From bowling on the streets of Hyderabad to becoming DSP Siraj, this man is an inspiration,” a fan tweeted during the match.
Mohammed Siraj’s Journey: From RCB to GT
Mohammed Siraj had been an integral part of the RCB setup for several seasons, earning his place as one of the most dependable pacers in Indian cricket. However, as RCB reshuffled its core during the 2025 mega auction, Gujarat Titans seized the opportunity to bring him on board.
His ₹12.25 crore price tag made headlines, especially with GT already boasting a formidable pace attack featuring names like Kagiso Rabada, Prasidh Krishna, and Ishant Sharma. Yet, with Wednesday’s match, Siraj proved why he remains one of India’s best, even if his place in the national limited-overs squad has recently been on the fringe.
National Team Selection: Still in the Picture
Although the Indian team selectors haven’t consistently considered Siraj for the white-ball formats recently, his IPL performances are a reminder of his match-winning potential. With the T20 World Cup 2026 around the corner, such spells could bring him back into the reckoning.
“He’s still one of the best swing bowlers India has,” said a senior commentator during the match broadcast.
“It’s only a matter of time before selectors come knocking.”
Gujarat Titans’ Bowling Powerhouse
With Siraj now part of GT, the team’s bowling arsenal looks terrifying. Under the guidance of Ashish Nehra and Shubman Gill, Gujarat Titans have successfully blended youth, experience, and raw pace.
Their pace lineup now includes:
- Mohammed Siraj
- Kagiso Rabada
- Prasidh Krishna
- Ishant Sharma
- Gerald Coetzee
This potent mix gives GT an edge on fast wickets, and Siraj’s early breakthroughs on April 2 are proof that the strategy is paying off.
Social Media Celebrations and DSP Trend
Following his spell against RCB, ‘DSP Siraj’ began trending on social media platforms like X and Instagram. Fans posted memes, appreciation posts, and old videos of Siraj’s emotional journey — from a humble upbringing in Hyderabad to national fame and police honor.
“Jersey changed, team changed, but his fire is still the same. DSP Siraj is back!” read one viral fan post.
What’s Next for Siraj?
As IPL 2025 progresses, Mohammed Siraj’s confidence and rhythm will be crucial to GT’s campaign. His ability to strike early and contain runs at the death gives GT tactical flexibility, especially when paired with the likes of Rabada and Rashid Khan.
Given his strong start, it would not be surprising to see Siraj emerge as one of the top wicket-takers of the season, further cementing his reputation as a bowler who thrives under pressure.
Mohammed Siraj’s journey is far from over. With Wednesday’s performance against his former team RCB, he sent a clear message — both to IPL critics and the Indian selectors — that he remains a lethal weapon on the field.
And off the field, his honorary DSP title continues to inspire millions who see in him a symbol of dreams realized through discipline and determination.
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