Mumbai: Mohammed Siraj, India’s fiery fast bowler, has revealed the secret behind his resilience against relentless online trolling — a pearl of wisdom from none other than cricket legend MS Dhoni.
In a candid chat with The Indian Express, Siraj shared how Dhoni’s early-career counsel became his shield against the fickle tide of public opinion, cementing his rise as one of Team India’s most dependable pacers.
Recalling his nervy debut days, Siraj quoted Dhoni’s blunt advice: “Don’t heed anyone’s words. When you do well, the world will cheer you; when you falter, the same world will jeer you.”
This mantra, imparted when Siraj was finding his feet in international cricket, taught him to tune out the noise. “Trolling stings,” Siraj admitted, chuckling at the memory of fans lauding him as unmatched in one match, only to mock him mercilessly after a bad outing. “They’ll say, ‘Go drive an auto with your dad!’ It’s absurd — one game you’re a hero, the next a zero.”
The Hyderabad speedster, now a linchpin in India’s Test bowling attack, shrugged off the volatility. “I decided long ago that I don’t need outsiders’ opinions. My team, my family — that’s what matters,” he declared.
Dhoni’s words, a masterclass in mental fortitude, have guided Siraj through form slumps and social media storms, ensuring his focus stays razor-sharp on the pitch.
As Siraj continues to torment batters with his pace and swing, his story is a testament to Dhoni’s enduring influence — not just as a captain but as a mentor who crafts champions. For Siraj, ignoring the trolls isn’t just a strategy; it’s a way of life.