T20 World Cup 2026: ‘Whatever God decided cannot be changed’ – Siraj reflects on dramatic comeback as India thump USA

India kicked off their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign with a 29-run win over the USA at the Wankhede Stadium, but not before being pushed into an uncomfortable position in what turned out to be a low-scoring contest. On a surface that did not play like the usual Wankhede belter, India’s much-hyped batting lineup stumbled early but managed to put up a 162-run target for the Americans.

In reply, India’s bowlers ensured there were no further twists, restricting the USA to 132 for 8. Among the standout performers during the second innings was Mohammed Siraj, whose spell played a key role in maintaining control and building pressure during the chase. Siraj picked up 3/29 in four overs at 7.20 rpo. He spoke warmly about meeting Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav after a long gap, sharing that the moment carried special significance as they had not crossed paths since IPL 2025.

“Surya bhai ne bola aane ka toh aane ka. I had an emotional hug [with Suryakumar Yadav] because we had not met since the IPL 2025. After that we never had a chance, but we got it now so it was good to meet after a lot of time,” Mohammed Siraj said after the match in a video on BCCI.tv.

The pacer then revealed that representing India at the T20 World Cup this year was something he never expected, especially after being out of the setup following the previous title-winning campaign. Reflecting on his return and performance, Siraj credited faith and destiny for guiding him back into the side and helping him deliver when it mattered most.

“I never thought I would play the T20 World Cup this year, because last time we were the champions and after that I wasn’t a part of team, since [the management] was only looking at players they wanted to play the tournament.

But, whatever the God decided cannot be changed. God was the one who brought me into the team; He got me to play the match; and He also made me pull out such a performance. So I cannot thank the almighty any lesser,” he added.

We need to carry forward the winning momentum: Siraj

After the extremely positive start, the Hyderabad-born made it clear that the Indian team’s focus has already shifted forward to face Namibia on February 12 in New Delhi. 

“The first match of the World Cup started exactly how we wanted it to be. But the only goal now is to carry forward this winning momentum now,” he concluded.