Kolkata : Indian and former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) pacer Mohammed Siraj parted ways with the franchise after they didn’t pick him in the IPL 2025 Mega Auction.
Siraj played in RCB for 7 years, becoming 3rd highest wicket taker after Yuzvendra Chahal and Harshal Patel, contributing to many memorable wins. However, to everyone’s surprise, neither did RCB go after him in the IPL 2025 Mega Auction nor used RTM despite it being available. As a result, the pacer is set to part ways with the franchise after 7 long years.
Following this, on Tuesday, November 26, Siraj penned down an emotional message following his RCB exit.
“To my dear RCB, Saat saal RCB ke saat mere dil ke bahut kareeb hai (The 7 years with RCB are close to my heart) As I take look back on my time in an RCB shirt my heart is full of gratitude, love and emotion. The day I first wore the RCB jersey, I never imagined the bond we would form. From the first ball I bowled in RCB colours, to every wicket taken, every match played, every moment shared with you, the journey has been nothing short of extraordinary.There have been ups and downs, but through it all, one thing has been constant: your unwavering support. RCB is more than just a franchise; it’s a feeling, a heartbeat, a family that feels like home,” Siraj wrote in an Instagram post.
Gujarat Titans roped in Siraj for INR 12.25 crores along with premier pacers like Prasidh Krishna and Kagiso Rabada. While RCB went for Josh Hazelwood, Bhuvaneshwar Kumar, Nuwan Thusara in pace department.
Siraj acknowledged RCB fans who’ve been through thick and thin supporting the franchise despite the side not winning any IPL Trophy since tournament’s beginning in 2008.
“There were nights when the losses hurt deeper than words can explain, but it was your voices in the stands, your messages on social media, your constant belief that kept me going. You, the fans of RCB, are the soul of this team. The energy you bring, the love you give, the faith you show, it’s unmatched. Every time I stepped onto that field, I felt the weight of your dreams and hopes, and I gave it my all because I knew you were right there behind me, pushing me to be better. I have seen your tears when we’ve fallen short, and I’ve witnessed your celebrations when we’ve risen to the occasion. And let me tell you, there’s no fanbase in the world like you. Your love, your dedication, your loyalty—it’s something I will cherish for the rest of my life”, Siraj added.
“Though I now step into a new chapter of my career, RCB will always have a piece of my heart. This isn’t goodbye—this is a thank you. Thank you for believing in me, for embracing me, and for making me feel like a part of something much bigger than just cricket”, Siraj concluded.
