In a country known for its overcast skies and seaming wickets, Mohammed Siraj’s success in England hasn’t been an accident — it’s been the result of laser-sharp focus, disciplined preparation, and personal sacrifices that many wouldn’t imagine from a fast bowler once known for his love of biryani.
As India wrapped up their tour of England with Siraj emerging as a consistent performer in the pace attack, the pacer opened up about the behind-the-scenes sacrifices he made — including saying no to his beloved biryani and cutting out junk food entirely — in a bid to maintain peak fitness and longevity during long bowling spells.
A Personal Battle With Temptation
Mohammed Siraj, a proud Hyderabadi, has never hidden his affection for biryani — a dish deeply ingrained in the culinary culture of his hometown. However, in the months leading up to and during the England tour, the speedster said he made a conscious decision to completely avoid outside food.
“I didn’t eat biryani during the entire England tour,” Siraj revealed in an interview. “I stayed away from junk food too. It was all about clean eating and staying fit for long spells.”
Fueling Performance With Fitness
Bowling in England isn’t just about speed — it’s about endurance. Overcast conditions demand more overs from seamers, and that means stamina must be at its peak. Siraj’s improved diet and fitness routine paid off handsomely, allowing him to:
- Bowl longer spells without losing pace.
- Maintain consistency and control late into the day.
- Avoid injuries that have plagued many of his peers.
According to support staff in the Indian camp, Siraj’s transformation was evident in the nets. His energy levels, recovery between sessions, and overall body language had noticeably improved.
Discipline Over Indulgence
For athletes like Siraj, who come from humble beginnings and have strong emotional connections to home-cooked meals, resisting food temptations is no small feat. But the pacer has made it clear: discipline is non-negotiable when playing at the highest level.
“There were days I craved it [biryani], especially after a good spell. But I kept reminding myself — fitness is more important than taste right now.”
Backed By Performance
Siraj’s numbers speak for themselves. His ability to extract movement, maintain relentless lines, and show aggression even on flat decks has made him one of India’s most dependable bowlers overseas. His commitment to fitness has been a key factor in this evolution.
During the England tour, he was not just a workhorse but also a game-changer — often breaking crucial partnerships and lifting the morale of the team with his never-say-die attitude.
A Message For Aspiring Cricketers
Siraj’s journey is an example for every young cricketer dreaming of donning the Indian jersey. Talent might open the door, but it’s discipline, sacrifice, and focus that keep you in the room.
His message is clear: “If you want to give your 100% for the team, you need to first give 100% to your body.”
In a world where sports stars often flaunt their cheat meals and indulgences, Mohammed Siraj’s quiet commitment to clean eating and disciplined living sets a different example. He’s not just bowling for wickets — he’s bowling for pride, progress, and proof that sacrifices off the field bring glory on it.
The next time you see him steam in from his mark with fire in his eyes, remember — it’s not just training and talent, but also the biryani he didn’t eat, that made that delivery possible.
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