'Siraj was terrible with RCB': Ex-India captain drops big remark after GT rise

Mohammed Siraj has emerged as one of the most dependable fast bowlers for Gujarat Titans in IPL 2026, forming a fearsome new-ball partnership alongside Kagiso Rabada. The duo’s relentless Test-match lengths and disciplined execution have consistently dismantled opposition batting line-ups this season, turning GT into one of the most dangerous bowling units in the tournament.After being acquired by Gujarat Titans in the IPL 2025 mega auction, Siraj appears to have rediscovered his rhythm and confidence in a new setup following his long stint with Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Former India captain Kris Srikkanth believes the move to Gujarat has transformed the pacer into a far more effective bowler.Speaking on his YouTube channel Cheeky Cheeka, Srikkanth made a strong observation on Siraj’s improvement this season.“(Mohammed) Siraj was terrible with RCB. But here, he has become a deadly bowler,” Srikkanth said.

Siraj’s Role in GT’s Dominant Bowling Attack

In IPL 2026, Siraj has operated as Gujarat Titans’ spearhead Indian pacer and has delivered consistently throughout the campaign. Bought for Rs 12.25 crore, the Hyderabad-born fast bowler has picked up 13 wickets in 12 matches while maintaining an economy rate of 8.23.Alongside Rabada, Siraj has helped GT dominate the powerplay overs with relentless accuracy and movement off the surface. The pair has frequently attacked batters with hard lengths more commonly associated with Test cricket, making scoring difficult even in high-scoring conditions.

Siraj’s improved discipline and tactical clarity have become defining features of his bowling this season. Rather than relying purely on aggression, he has focused on consistency, seam positioning and control, allowing him to thrive within Gujarat’s structured bowling setup.

RCB 7 years stint

Before joining Gujarat Titans, Siraj spent seven seasons with Royal Challengers Bengaluru between 2018 and 2024. Bought for Rs 2.20 crore ahead of the 2018 season, Siraj initially endured a difficult period where he was heavily criticised for leaking runs and struggling under pressure.However, with strong backing from Virat Kohli, Siraj gradually evolved into RCB’s pace leader. Over time, he transformed into one of the franchise’s most trusted bowlers and eventually became RCB’s third-highest wicket-taker in T20 history with 83 wickets in 87 matches.Gujarat Titans have once again proven why they remain one of the most consistent franchises in IPL history since entering the league in 2022. They won the title in their debut season and have reached the playoffs in two of the next three editions. In IPL 2026, GT are once again on the verge of playoff qualification. The side currently has 16 points from 12 matches, and one more victory would officially seal their place in the next round.