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'I Couldn't Digest It': Siraj Breaks Silence On Champions Trophy Snub By Rohit Sharma

Jatin

Rohit Sharma had dropped Mohammed Siraj for CT 2025 [Source: @Akaran_1/x.com]Rohit Sharma had dropped Mohammed Siraj for CT 2025 [Source: @Akaran_1/x.com]

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The IPL 2025 is off to a cracking start: five games in, we have already had last-over thrillers, sensational knocks and some serious heat with the ball. In Match 5 of the tournament, it was Gujarat Titans (GT) who took Punjab Kings (PBKS) and faced a 11-run defeat in their opening clash on Tuesday at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

But just before GT hit the turf in front of their home crowd, one of their big-money signings, Mohammed Siraj, opened up about something that’s been on his chest for a while: his Champions Trophy 2025 snub.

Siraj Opens Up On Champions Trophy Snub

It’s no secret that Siraj was left out of the 15-member Indian squad that went on to win the Champions Trophy under Rohit Sharma’s leadership. For a bowler who has been a consistent performer across formats, the exclusion raised quite a few eyebrows.

Siraj, though, has taken it on the chin. Speaking ahead of the game, he admitted that it stung at first.

“At the beginning, I couldn't digest that I wasn't part of the squad. As an international player, you always want to play in an ICC event,” he said.


But the Hyderabad pacer wasn’t pointing fingers. Instead, he backed Rohit Sharma's call, understanding the logic behind it.

“Rohit bhai also does what is best for the team… he knew that pacers won't be of much use on that track. That’s why they went with four spinners,” Siraj added.

Rohit’s Spin Gamble Paid Off

Turns out, Rohit’s gut call worked like a charm. India beat New Zealand in the final, lifting their second ICC title in just nine months. The pitches were spin-friendly and the decision to go with four tweakers paid rich dividends.

Siraj may have missed out but there’s no bitterness in his voice, just a little heartbreak and a whole lot of maturity. That’s what makes this pacer a true team man.