 "Mohammed Siraj celebrates after taking a wicket in IPL 2025. Image: AFP")
Gujarat Titans’ Director of Cricket Vikram Solanki heaped praise on head coach Ashish Nehra for playing a key role in helping Mohammed Siraj bounce back in IPL 2025 . Ahead of GT’s clash against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Eden Gardens, Solanki spoke about how Nehra’s calm mentorship and support were crucial in Siraj’s impressive turnaround this season.
Mohammed Siraj had a rough patch before IPL 2025. He was dropped from the Indian team and looked low on confidence. But since joining Gujarat Titans this season, Siraj has looked like a different bowler and is back to his wicket-taking best. Siraj was released by Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) ahead of IPL 2025 auction and was later bought by GT for INR 12.25 crore.
Solanki credits Nehra for Siraj’s comeback
Ahead of GT’s clash against KKR, Solanki said that a lot of credit for Siraj’s comeback goes to Ashish Nehra. According to Solanki, Nehra played a big part in helping Siraj stay mentally strong.
“They obviously have a very good connection, but I don’t want, for a second, to take away from all of the hard work that Siraj has done also. Of course, he has all of the support of all of the coaches, and there is no doubt that Ashish has been a big influence. But we must also acknowledge the work that Siraj has done and respect that,” Solanki said.
“It just seems as though we’ve got a guy that has something to prove. I’m sure he was disappointed, but he’s channelled that disappointment in working hard, and, I suppose, having a real thought about what he wants to do. He’s got a great coach in Ashish Nehra helping him as far as his performance is concerned. Long may that connection continue and long may Siraj continue to thrive,” he added.
Thanks to Nehra’s mentorship and his own hard work, Siraj has now become a key player in Gujarat Titans’ bowling line-up. Whether it’s with the new ball or at the death, Siraj has shown control and aggression. He is currently the joint-third highest wicket-taker in IPL 2025 with 11 wickets under his belt.