From Cricket Star to Law Enforcer: Mohammed Siraj Becomes Telangana DSP
Overview
Mohammed Siraj (born 13 March 1994) is an accomplished Indian international cricketer renowned for his skills as a right-arm fast bowler. He represents the Indian national team, plays for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the Indian Premier League, and also competes for Hyderabad in domestic cricket. Notably, he played a key role in the Indian squad that clinched the 2023 Asia Cup, earning the title of Player of the Match in the final against Sri Lanka. He was also part of the victorious Indian team at the 2024 T20 World Cup. In addition to his cricketing achievements, Siraj was appointed as a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) in Hyderabad on October 11, 2024, following an announcement by CM Revanth Reddy.
Early Life and Background
Born on 13 March 1994 in Hyderabad, Telangana, Siraj hails from a Hyderabadi Muslim family. His father, Mohammed Ghaus, worked as an auto rickshaw driver, while his mother, Shabana Begum, is a homemaker. Siraj's elder brother, Mohammed Ismail, is an engineer. He began playing club cricket at the age of 19 after taking up bowling with a tennis ball at 16. His debut performance was impressive, as he claimed 9 wickets for his uncle's team in a match organized by the Hyderabad Cricket Association.
Domestic Career Highlights
Siraj made his first-class debut on November 15, 2015, under coach Karthik Udupa during the 2015–16 Ranji Trophy tournament. He followed this with his Twenty20 debut on January 2, 2016, in the 2015–16 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. In the 2016–17 Ranji Trophy, he emerged as the highest wicket-taker for Hyderabad, claiming 41 wickets at an average of 18.92.
His standout performances continued in February 2018 when he led the wicket-takers in the 2017–18 Vijay Hazare Trophy, recording 23 dismissals in seven matches. He also participated in India A's squad for the 2018–19 Deodhar Trophy and later joined India B's squad for the 2019–20 edition.
Journey in International Cricket
In October 2017, Siraj was selected for India's T20 International (T20I) squad for the series against New Zealand, making his debut on November 4, 2017. He marked his entry by dismissing Kane Williamson and finishing with figures of 1 for 53.
By February 2018, he was included in the T20I squad for the Nidahas Trophy and was later named in India's Test squad for the West Indies series in September, although he did not play. He made his One Day International (ODI) debut against Australia on January 15, 2019.
In October 2020, Siraj was chosen for India's Test squad for the series against Australia. He made his Test debut on December 26, 2020, taking the wicket of Marnus Labuschagne. He achieved his first five-wicket haul in the fourth Test of the series in January 2021.
In early 2023, Siraj played a crucial role in the ODI series against New Zealand, taking 4 wickets in the first match to secure a narrow victory. By January 21, 2023, he ascended to the No. 1 ODI Bowler in the ICC rankings.
His performances in the 2023 Asia Cup were remarkable, particularly in the final against Sri Lanka, where he equaled the record for the joint fastest six-wicket haul in ODIs, ending with figures of 6/21.
Indian Premier League Career
Siraj's IPL journey began when he was acquired by Sunrisers Hyderabad in February 2017 for 2.6 crores. In January 2018, he transitioned to the Royal Challengers Bangalore, where he has continued to shine. Notably, on October 21, 2020, he made history as the first bowler to bowl back-to-back maiden overs in a single IPL match.
Conclusion
Mohammed Siraj has emerged as a pivotal figure in Indian cricket, showcasing his talents on both domestic and international platforms. With his recent achievements, including a DSP appointment, he continues to inspire aspiring cricketers and fans alike.
Keywords:
Mohammed Siraj
Indian cricketer
right-arm fast bowler
Indian national team
Royal Challengers Bengaluru
Indian Premier League (IPL)
Hyderabad domestic cricket
2023 Asia Cup
Player of the Match
2024 T20 World Cup
Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP)
Hyderabad
CM Revanth Reddy
cricket debut
Ranji Trophy
highest wicket-taker
Vijay Hazare Trophy
T20 International (T20I)
One Day International (ODI)
Test cricket
ICC ODI rankings
back-to-back maiden overs
cricketing achievements
inspiration for cricketers