How Mohammed Siraj Cancelled His Real Madrid Plans to Deliver for India

Mohammed Siraj's European holiday plans, which included a trip to Germany and watching a Real Madrid match in Spain, were abruptly shelved when he received a late call-up to the Indian squad for the T20 World Cup 2026. Drafted straight into the playing XI against the USA after Harshit Rana's injury and Jasprit Bumrah's illness, Siraj went from vacation mode to leading India's pace attack in less than 24 hours.

Recalling the moment, Siraj said, "Then suddenly, Surya bhai called me. He said, 'Get ready, pack your bag, and come. ' I said, 'Surya bhai, don't joke, because this is not going to happen. ' He said, 'I'm telling you the truth, get ready. '" Moments later, selector Pragyan Ojha confirmed the news, leaving Siraj with little time to process

the turn of events.

Despite not having played a T20I in 18 months, Siraj delivered immediately. Defending 161, he struck twice in the PowerPlay as the USA collapsed to 13 for three. He finished with figures of 3 for 29, taking his third wicket off the final ball to seal India's win.

Reflecting on the sudden opportunity, Siraj said, "No one can change what God has written. I came, played the match - everything was written. God is great. " He added that experience helped him settle quickly, saying, "I've been playing for India for almost 10 years now, so when you get a chance, you know how to prepare yourself. "

Siraj explained his approach was simple: "I bowled the same line and length that I was bowling in the Ranji Trophy. When we were batting, I felt the new ball wasn't that easy to hit. "

He also praised his new-ball partner, adding, "The execution was very good, especially from Arshdeep. He bowled three overs that created a lot of pressure, and because of that, we got this result. "

What began as a cancelled holiday ended as a match-defining contribution, underlining Siraj's readiness when India needed him most.