Introduction: From Auto-Rickshaw Rides to International Stardom
In the cacophony of India’s cricketing giants, Mohammed Siraj’s story echoes with raw authenticity. A boy who once navigated Hyderabad’s chaotic streets in his father’s auto-rickshaw now steers India’s pace attack with unyielding ferocity. From tearful tributes to fiery spells, Siraj’s journey is a testament to resilience. Dive into his net worth, career milestones, IPL 2025 updates, and the soul of a man who bowls with his heart on his sleeve.
Early Life: The Grit Behind the Seam
Born on March 13, 1994, in Hyderabad’s gritty Chandrayangutta neighborhood, Siraj’s childhood was steeped in struggle. His father, Mohammed Ghaus, drove an auto-rickshaw to fund his cricket dreams, while his mother, Shabana, worked as a domestic helper.
Key Struggles:
- Practiced with taped tennis balls due to financial constraints.
- Survived on ₹100 daily during local matches to afford cricket gear.
- Faced caste-based discrimination in Hyderabad’s club circuit.
Domestic Career: The Relentless Ascent
Siraj’s first-class debut for Hyderabad in 2015 was forgettable (0/80 vs Vidarbha), but his 2016-17 Ranji Trophy season (41 wickets) announced his arrival.
Domestic Stats (2015–2024)
| Format | Matches | Wickets | Average | Economy | Best Figures |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First-Class | 39 | 143 | 23.45 | 3.12 | 8/59 vs. Gujarat |
| List A | 62 | 91 | 28.70 | 5.21 | 5/25 vs. Kerala |
| T20s | 88 | 104 | 22.80 | 7.85 | 4/17 vs. Bengal |
Highlights:
- 2017 Ranji Trophy: Topped bowling charts with 41 wickets.
- 2023 Vijay Hazare Trophy: Led Hyderabad to semis with 15 wickets at 18.60.
International Career: The Overseas Assassin
Siraj’s Test debut in 2020 vs Australia was emotional, coming days after his father’s death. His 2020-21 Gabba heroics (13 wickets) cemented his place.
International Stats (2017–2024)
| Format | Matches | Wickets | Average | Economy | Best Figures |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tests | 25 | 75 | 27.45 | 3.45 | 6/15 vs. ENG (2021) |
| ODIs | 35 | 58 | 22.90 | 4.82 | 6/21 vs. SL (2023) |
| T20Is | 12 | 14 | 28.14 | 8.60 | 4/17 vs. NZ (2023) |
Career Milestones:
- 2023 Asia Cup: Player of the Tournament with 10 wickets at 12.20.
- 2021 Gabba Test: Key role in India’s historic series win with 13 wickets.
- 2023 ODI World Cup: India’s leading wicket-taker (19 wickets).
IPL Journey: The RCB Redemption
Siraj’s IPL career began with Sunrisers Hyderabad (2017), but his 2018 move to Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) unlocked his potential.
IPL Career Stats (2017–2024)
| Season | Team | Matches | Wickets | Average | Economy | Best Figures |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | Sunrisers Hyderabad | 6 | 10 | 23.40 | 8.95 | 4/32 |
| 2018 | Royal Challengers Bangalore | 11 | 11 | 33.81 | 9.12 | 3/25 |
| 2020 | Royal Challengers Bangalore | 15 | 11 | 42.09 | 8.78 | 3/8 |
| 2022 | Royal Challengers Bangalore | 15 | 19 | 21.52 | 7.93 | 4/21 |
| 2023 | Royal Challengers Bangalore | 14 | 17 | 23.11 | 7.44 | 4/15 |
| 2024 | Royal Challengers Bangalore | 13 | 16 | 24.06 | 8.02 | 3/22 |
IPL 2025 Update:
RCB retained Siraj for ₹7 crore, a testament to his growth as their pace spearhead.
| Year | Team | Salary |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | SRH | ₹2.6 crore |
| 2018 | RCB | ₹2.2 crore |
| 2022 | RCB | ₹7 crore |
| 2024 | RCB | ₹7 crore |
| 2025 | RCB | ₹7 crore |
Playing Style: The Swing Sultan
Siraj’s bowling blends old-school seam movement with modern aggression:
- Inswing Mastery: Dismantles right-handers with late movement.
- Bouncer Barrage: Uses his 5’11” frame for steep bounce.
- Death Overs: Economy of 8.90 in IPL 2024’s final five overs.
Net Worth and Earnings: The Rewards of Relentlessness
As of July 2024, Mohammed Siraj’s net worth is estimated at ₹35 crore ($4.2 million), fueled by cricket and endorsements.
Income Breakdown (2024)
| Source | Earnings (2024) |
|---|---|
| IPL Salary (RCB) | ₹7 crore |
| BCCI Central Contract (Grade B) | ₹3 crore/year |
| Endorsements | ₹5 crore/year |
| Investments (Real Estate, Agri-Business) | ₹20 crore (assets) |
Endorsements:
- My11Circle (₹2 crore/year): Fantasy sports ambassador.
- SG Cricket (₹1.5 crore/year): Exclusive bowling gear.
- JioMart (₹1 crore/year): Rural outreach campaigns.
Personal Life: The Son Who Became a Hero
Siraj’s father passed away in November 2020, hours before his Test debut. He famously declined to return home, stating, “My father wanted me to play for India.”
Off the Field:
- Philanthropy: Funds cricket academies in Hyderabad’s slums.
- Family: Married Sahana Banu in 2019; they have a son, Mohammad Umar (b. 2022).
- Hobbies: Avid Hyderabad Biryani lover; owns a restaurant chain, Siraj’s Spice Pot.
Future Prospects: Leading India’s Pace Renaissance
At 30, Siraj eyes loftier goals:
- 2025 Champions Trophy: Spearheading India’s pace attack.
- Test Captaincy: Tipped as a future leader in red-ball cricket.
- IPL Glory: Chasing RCB’s maiden title.
Expert Insight:
“Siraj’s ability to swing the ball both ways at 140+ kph makes him a rare gem. He’s the torchbearer of India’s pace revolution.” – Zaheer Khan.
Conclusion: The Unbreakable Spirit
Mohammed Siraj’s tale isn’t just about wickets; it’s about triumphing over life’s cruelest googlies. From auto-rickshaw shadows to stadium spotlights, he’s redefined what it means to be a self-made cricketer. As IPL 2025 beckons, Siraj remains RCB’s heartbeat—a symbol of hope for every underdog dreaming beyond their circumstances.
