‘I lost the biggest support of my life’ – Mohammed Siraj’s father passes away

‘I lost the biggest support of my life’ – Mohammed Siraj’s father passes away
Mohammed Siraj with his father

Indian fast-bowler Mohammed Siraj’s father passed away on Friday in Hyderabad due to a lung ailment aged 53. Siraj who is currently in Australia training for India’s Tour of Australia as he is in the Indian Test squad heard the news when he returned from a practice session. Due to rules of quarantine and bio-secure bubbles, Siraj won’t be able to travel to India for his father’s last rites.

Siraj’s father Mohammed Ghouse was admitted to a hospital in Hyderabad on October 20. The following day his son produced one of the best spells in this year’s Indian Premier League by scalping 3 wickets and conceding just 8 runs. His health continued to deteriorate and Ghouse breathed his last today.

‘It was his dream to see me play for the country’ – Siraj

Mohammed Siraj during his spell of 3/8

Remembering his dad in an interview with Sportstar, Siraj said, “My dad’s wish was always this – mera beta, desh ka naam roshan karna (my son, you should make my country proud). And, I will do that for sure.”

“I know what kind of hardship my dad faced in my early days driving an auto rickshaw to let me pursue my passion for the game,” Siraj added.

“It is shocking. I lost the biggest support of my life. It was his dream to see me play for the country and I am glad that way I could realise that and bring joy for him,” a visibly devastated Siraj informed.

Siraj further added that despite the fact that he can’t leave to India for his father’s last rites, he is being provided all the support he needs. “The coach Shastri Sir and captain Virat Kohli were informed about the news. They just told me to be bold and are lending all the support,” Siraj signed off.

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