Mohammed Siraj shared an emotional message with all RCB fans after being ignored by the Royal Challengers Bengaluru during the IPL 2025 Auction. It was a big shock for fans that RCB not only chose not to retain Siraj but also didn’t bid for him or use the RTM (Right to Match) card, even though they had a big budget. Siraj understood the fans’ disappointment and, on Tuesday, a day after the auction in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, he penned a heartfelt letter on Instagram. He thanked the fans and assured them that he would always cherish the memories with RCB.
“Looking back at my journey in the RCB jersey, my heart is filled with gratitude, love, and emotion. From the day I first wore the RCB colors, I never thought the bond with the fans would become so strong. Every ball I bowled, every wicket I took, and every match I played in RCB colors was special. The journey has been extraordinary, filled with both highs and lows. But one thing remained constant—your support. RCB is not just a team; it’s an emotion, a family, a place that feels like home,” Siraj wrote.
Siraj joined RCB in 2018 and became one of their key players, taking 83 wickets in 87 matches—the third-highest in the team’s history after Yuzvendra Chahal and Harshal Patel. In the IPL 2025 Auction, Siraj was bought by Gujarat Titans for a massive ₹12.25 crore and will lead their pace attack alongside Kagiso Rabada and Prasidh Krishna. Gujarat Titans have decided to build a new bowling unit, moving on from senior pacer Mohammed Shami.
Siraj also acknowledged RCB’s struggle to win an IPL trophy despite being one of the oldest teams in the league. He said, “There were tough nights when losses hurt deeply, but your voices in the stadium, your messages on social media, and your faith kept me going. RCB fans are the soul of the team. Your energy, love, and belief are unmatched. Every time I stepped onto the field, I felt your dreams and hopes, and I gave my best because I knew you were behind me.”
He added, “I’ve seen your tears during tough times and your celebrations during our victories. There is no fanbase like you anywhere in the world. Your love, loyalty, and dedication will stay with me forever. Though I move to a new chapter with Gujarat Titans, RCB will always hold a special place in my heart. This is not goodbye—it’s a heartfelt thank you for believing in me and making me feel part of something bigger than cricket.”
While Siraj will now spearhead the Gujarat Titans’ bowling unit, RCB’s pace department includes Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Yash Dayal, and Nuwan Thusara for the upcoming season.
