After IPL 2025 auction, Mohammed Siraj bids emotional goodbye to RCB

IPL 2025: Mohammed Siraj Bids Farewell to RCB After Joining Gujarat Titans for Rs 12.25 Crore

Fast bowler Mohammed Siraj has penned an emotional letter to Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and their fans after his seven-year association with the franchise ended during the IPL 2025 mega auction in Jeddah. Siraj expressed his gratitude, saying he was not bidding goodbye but thanking the team and its supporters for providing him with a platform to grow as a cricketer.

On Sunday, November 25, Siraj’s time with RCB concluded when the franchise chose not to retain him or bid for him in the auction. The Gujarat Titans secured the Hyderabad pacer for an impressive Rs 12.25 crore, outbidding Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals. Although many expected RCB to use their Right to Match (RTM) card to retain Siraj, the team opted not to, paving the way for his move to the Titans.

Siraj, who began his IPL career with Sunrisers Hyderabad, played 87 matches for RCB, taking 83 wickets. Under the captaincy of Virat Kohli, Siraj rose to prominence, becoming a vital part of RCB’s bowling lineup. Despite the surprising decision not to retain him, his legacy with RCB remains significant.

The Gujarat Titans now add a proven fast bowler to their arsenal as they aim for glory in the upcoming season. Siraj’s heartfelt farewell and his move to the Titans mark the beginning of an exciting new chapter in his IPL journey.

SIRAJ’S EMOTIONAL NOTE TO RCB AND THEIR FANS

“To my dear RCB,

“Saat saal RCB ke saat mere dil ke bahut kareeb hail (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.

“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.

“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.”

RCB bought Bhuvneshwar Kumar in the IPL mega auction to lead their bowling attack. They retained Yash Dayal, the left-arm pacer, while letting go of Siraj.

To strengthen their pace-bowling lineup, RCB also signed Josh Hazlewood, Lungi Ngidi, and Nuwan Thushara.

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