In a sport where form is often the only currency, India’s pace ace Mohammed Siraj let the ball do the talking. After being unexpectedly left out of the squad for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Siraj stormed back into the spotlight with a fiery spell in the IPL 2025 that left fans and pundits stunned.

Playing for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Siraj's lethal performance against Kolkata Knight Riders was not just a match-winner—it was a statement.

Champions Trophy Snub Raises Eyebrows
The exclusion of Siraj from India’s Champions Trophy roster was one of the biggest surprises when the squad was announced last week. Known for his searing pace, bounce, and ability to strike early, Siraj has been India’s go-to bowler in all formats over the past two years.

While selectors cited “workload management” and “recent inconsistency,” the cricketing community wasn’t convinced—especially given Siraj’s consistent domestic and franchise performances.

A Spell to Remember
Taking the criticism in his stride, Siraj unleashed a stunning bowling display for RCB. He picked up 4 wickets for just 18 runs in four overs, dismantling KKR’s top order with pace, precision, and aggression.

Each delivery showcased a bowler in complete command—swinging the new ball, mixing lengths intelligently, and executing yorkers with pinpoint accuracy. It was a textbook T20 spell that reminded everyone why he’s considered one of India’s finest fast bowlers.

Post-Match Reaction from Siraj
When asked about his omission and subsequent performance, Siraj remained diplomatic but firm:

“I respect the selectors’ decision, but my job is to perform. Whether I’m in the squad or not, I will give my 100% every game,” Siraj said.

He added, “There’s always another chance, another tournament. For now, my focus is on helping RCB lift the IPL trophy.”

Support from Former Cricketers
Siraj’s exclusion sparked reactions from several former players. Ex-India captain Sourav Ganguly said during a post-match discussion:

“Leaving out Siraj from a major tournament like the Champions Trophy is puzzling. He’s a proven match-winner.”

Harbhajan Singh echoed the sentiment, stating, “Selectors must look at current form. Siraj is bowling better than ever. He deserved a spot.”

RCB Camp Applauds His Determination
RCB captain Faf du Plessis praised Siraj for staying focused despite the disappointment. “He’s been outstanding in the nets and today he delivered exactly what we needed—early breakthroughs and energy.”

Head coach Andy Flower called Siraj the “heartbeat of RCB’s bowling unit,” highlighting his work ethic and leadership among the younger bowlers.

Selectors’ Perspective and Justification
According to a BCCI official, Siraj’s omission was part of a “rotation strategy” aimed at keeping pacers fresh ahead of a packed calendar.

“The decision wasn’t based on form alone. We also considered injury prevention and variety in attack. That said, Siraj is very much in our long-term plans,” the source noted.

Whether this explanation will satisfy fans remains to be seen.

Fans Rally Behind Siraj
Social media platforms were abuzz after Siraj’s standout performance. Hashtags like #JusticeForSiraj and #SirajDeservesBetter began trending on X (formerly Twitter).

One user wrote:

“Siraj proved why he’s world-class. Champions Trophy snub only made him more dangerous.”

Another commented:

“Selectors might regret this. Siraj is bowling like a man on a mission.”

Looking Ahead: Is a Comeback on the Cards?
The Champions Trophy might be out of reach for now, but the door for Siraj is far from closed. With the T20 World Cup and India’s next home series coming up, consistent performances in IPL could force selectors to reconsider.

His ability to swing the ball in the powerplay and bowl deadly yorkers at the death makes him an all-format asset. India can’t afford to overlook that for long.

Conclusion
Mohammed Siraj’s blazing IPL spell was more than a performance—it was a message. Disappointed but undeterred, he showed the value of resilience and self-belief. In a cricketing landscape where opportunities come and go quickly, Siraj is determined to keep knocking—louder than ever.

As IPL 2025 continues, one thing is certain: Siraj won’t stop until he’s back in blue. And if he keeps bowling like this, the selectors may have no choice but to listen.