“Jaao auto chalao…”: India pacer Mohammed Siraj shares the cruel online trolling that broke him

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Fast bowler Mohammed Siraj, one of India’s most consistent and passionate performers in recent years, recently opened up about the dark side of fame – online trolling and fan backlash. Speaking at the Indian Express Idea Exchange, Siraj recalled how fan reactions can shift overnight, exposing him to immense mental pressure.

Siraj, who emerged as one of India’s heroes during the 2025 Test series in England by claiming 23 wickets in five matches, revealed how quickly admiration can turn into insult. Despite delivering one of the most memorable spells at The Oval, he admitted being hurt by online comments comparing him to his father, a former auto-rickshaw driver. “When you perform well, people call you the best. But if one game goes wrong, they say, ‘Jaao auto chalao’ – as if all your hard work means nothing,” Siraj said emotionally.

The pacer explained that the brutal nature of online criticism made him rethink how much external opinions mattered. “In one game you’re celebrated, and in the next, you’re discarded. I realized I must focus only on my family and teammates,” he shared. The statement shed light on how athletes, despite their success, remain vulnerable to abuse and unrealistic expectations from fans.

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Siraj’s journey from the bylanes of Hyderabad to global cricket stardom is one built on resilience and relentless hard work. The 31-year-old pacer’s rise is both inspiring and symbolic – the son of an auto driver who once struggled to afford a proper pair of shoes, now stands among India’s finest seamers. His relentless pursuit of excellence has already placed him alongside legends like Kapil Dev and Jasprit Bumrah, both of whom achieved 20 or more wickets in multiple Test series.

Siraj’s standout performances in England during 2025 reinforced his reputation as a match-winner overseas – a rare feat for any Indian pacer. His ability to swing the ball both ways, relentlessly maintain line and length, and deliver lethal spells under pressure has made him an indispensable asset in India’s red-ball setup. Fans and analysts alike hailed his discipline, especially during India’s commanding victory over England at The Oval, where Siraj’s pace and aggression sealed the series.

However, even after such monumental success, Siraj admitted that he encountered moments of mental breakdown due to harsh criticism. “The same fans who praise you can turn against you so quickly. That’s the reality of social media,” he said. For Siraj, maintaining composure amid such negativity has become as important as preparing for match situations.

Currently ranked 15th in the ICC Test bowling rankings, Siraj continues to spearhead India’s pace attack. His recent seven-wicket haul against West Indies in Ahmedabad is further proof of his consistency and growth. Beyond numbers, though, lies his resolve – to let his performances speak louder than the trolls.

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