India pace bowler Mohammed Siraj, born on March 13, 1994, in Hyderabad, is a prominent Indian cricketer known for his fast bowling and impressive performances in both domestic and international cricket. His journey to success has been marked by immense struggles, hard work, and dedication.

As the star cricketer turns a year older today, let’s take a sneak peek into his life struggle and success.

Early Life and Struggles:

Siraj hails from a humble background. His father, Mohammed Ghouse, worked as an auto-rickshaw driver, while his mother, Shabnam, was a homemaker. Raised in the old city of Hyderabad, Siraj's family struggled financially, but they always supported his passion for cricket. His initial exposure to the game came from playing tennis ball cricket in his neighborhood, which eventually ignited his desire to pursue cricket professionally.

Siraj first began playing for a local team, and soon, his raw pace and talent caught the attention of cricket coaches. Despite facing financial hardships, Siraj continued to train rigorously. His father was a huge source of motivation, often taking loans to fund his son’s cricketing dreams.

Struggles to Professional Cricket:

His journey into professional cricket was not easy. Siraj had to work his way up through the ranks of Hyderabad’s domestic cricket circuit. Initially, he played in local leagues, but his breakthrough came in the 2016-17 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where his consistent pace and sharp deliveries earned him a place in the Hyderabad team. The 2017-18 Ranji Trophy was another pivotal moment, where Siraj made an indelible mark by taking 41 wickets in the tournament, attracting attention from the Indian selectors.

Rise to National Fame

In 2017, Siraj's hard work paid off when he was selected for the Indian national team for a T20 series against New Zealand. His debut came in November 2017, and he quickly established himself as a potent force in Indian fast bowling. Siraj’s pace, accuracy, and ability to swing the ball made him a standout performer. His performances in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he was part of the Sunrisers Hyderabad squad, also helped him cement his place in the national team.

Personal Life and Motivation

Siraj’s personal life is a testament to his resilience. His father, who passed away in 2020, was a major influence on his career. Siraj has always credited his father's support as the reason behind his success. His bond with his mother, who has been his emotional anchor, remains strong. Siraj’s rise from humble beginnings to the Indian national team is a story of determination, perseverance, and love for the game. Today, Mohammed Siraj stands as an inspiration to countless young cricketers in India, proving that with grit and determination, no dream is too big to achieve.