Mohammed Siraj sends strong message to selectors with his heroics in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy

Mohammed Siraj could not have chosen a better stage to remind everyone of his T20 credentials. Left out of India’s recent T20I plans, the Hyderabad pacer produced a sensational match-winning spell in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025–26, underlining his case with authority and precision.

Match-Winning Spell Against Mumbai

Siraj starred with figures of 3 for 21 as Hyderabad dismantled a strong Mumbai side in a Super League Group B clash. Mumbai, led by Shardul Thakur and packed with star names such as Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sarfaraz Khan and Ajinkya Rahane, were restricted to a modest 131.

The turning point came in the 17th over when Siraj struck twice in successive deliveries. He first dismissed Suryansh Shedge with a sharp return catch and then trapped skipper Shardul Thakur leg-before on the very next ball. Soon after, Tanush Kotian fell for two, sealing Mumbai’s fate and earning Siraj the Player of the Match award.

Double strike, ft. Mohd Siraj 🔥

🎥 WATCH his magnificent bit of bowling for Hyderabad against Mumbai.

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Hyderabad Cruise to Easy Win

Chasing 132, Hyderabad made light work of the target, romping home in just 11.5 overs with nine wickets in hand. Siraj’s incisive spell ensured there were no late hiccups, setting up a comprehensive victory.

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Timely Reminder Ahead of T20 World Cup

Siraj’s performance gains significance as he remains out of favour in India’s T20I setup, despite being part of the title-winning ICC T20 World Cup 2024 squad. With Indian bowlers conceding heavily against South Africa in the recent second T20I at Mullanpur, his SMAT heroics have reignited discussions around his T20 future.

The 31-year-old, who has 14 wickets from 16 T20Is, had earlier impressed with an economical 1 for 15 against Uttar Pradesh this season. With the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 approaching, Siraj’s red-hot domestic form may yet force selectors to take notice once again.