Mohammed Siraj’s release from Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) before the IPL 2025 mega auction surprised many fans. The Indian fast bowler had been with RCB for seven consecutive years, claiming 99 wickets in 102 matches. However, the franchise opted for a fresh fast-bowling core, bringing in Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, and Yash Dayal. The decision paid off as RCB lifted their first IPL title in 18 years.
Speaking to Cricbuzz, RCB’s director of cricket Mo Bobat opened up on the tough decision to part ways with Siraj.
“Siraj is probably the player that we spent the longest deliberating over,” Bobat admitted.
“Indian international bowlers are not that easy to get. We discussed every eventuality with Mohammed Siraj, whether to retain him, release him, or use the Right to Match. It was not a straightforward call,” he further explained.
Why RCB Chose Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood
Eventually, RCB secured Josh Hazlewood for Rs 12.50 crore and Bhuvneshwar Kumar for Rs 10.75 crore, while Mohammed Siraj went to Gujarat Titans for Rs 12.25 crore.
“We were keen to try and get Bhuvi for two ends of the innings. Keeping Siraj would have made that difficult. There is never just one reason; several factors come into play,” Bobat said.
Siraj had a steady debut season with Gujarat Titans, picking up 16 wickets in 15 matches. On the other hand, Bhuvneshwar Kumar played a pivotal role in RCB’s title run, taking 17 wickets. Josh Hazlewood went on to win the Purple Cap with 22 wickets in just 12 matches.
Bobat on Cameron Green
Mo Bobat also spoke about Australian all-rounder Cameron Green, who represented RCB in IPL 2024. Green scored 255 runs and picked up 10 wickets across 13 matches.
“Had he been fit, we would almost certainly have retained him,” Bobat said.
Stay tuned for all the latest Cricket news, match highlights, player analysis and viral moments!