Mohammed Siraj’s Ailing Father Passes Away

India’s right-arm fast bowler Mohammed Siraj’s father Mohammed Ghouse has passed away at age of 53, on Friday, November 20. He was suffering from a lung ailment. Siraj is a part of India’s Test squad and is currently in Sydney for the upcoming clash with the hosts Australia.

Mohammed Siraj heard the news of his father’s demise after a practice session in Sydney. Due to the strict quarantine rules in Australia, he won’t be able to perform the last rites of his father.

“My dad’s wish was always this – mera beta, desh ka naam roshan karna (my son, you should make my country proud). And, I will do that for sure,” Siraj told Sportstar.

“I know what kind of hardship my dad faced in my early days driving an auto-rickshaw to let me pursue my passion for the game. It is shocking. I lost the biggest support of my life. It was his dream to see me play for the country and I am glad that way I could realise that and bring joy for him.”

“The coach Shastri Sir and captain Virat Kohli were informed about the news. They just told me to be bold and are lending all the support,” Siraj added.

Mohammed Ghouse was also admitted to hospital during Indian Premier League. He got admitted to a hospital in Hyderabad a day before Siraj had stunned Kolkata Knight Riders with a brilliant spell of 3/8 on October 21.

“Dad was admitted to the hospital a day before the match so I was really concerned. However, when I called home after the match, I was really surprised to hear that dad was home and that made me happier that another good news after we winning the match against KKR,” Siraj had in a video posted by RCB.

“He even told me happily that people having to call him the whole day that your son has done so well in IPL and all the newspapers in Hyderabad have your photo,” he said.