[WATCH] ‘Real Madrid, Ramadan and rest’ – Mohammed Siraj how last-minute World Cup call-up changed February plan

When Mohammed Siraj was asked what his February plans looked like before his last-moment return to India’s T20 World Cup 2026 squad. His response was refreshingly honest, as the pacer, who replaced Harshit Rana in India’s squad, revealed that he was planning to attend Real Madrid’s match on February 15.

In a clip shared on social media, Siraj laughed as he explained his original schedule.

“Mera ye plan tha ki 15th ko Real Madrid ka match tha. Uske baad Ramzan bhi tha. Lekin upar waale ne jo likha hai, wahi hoga,” Said Siraj. (My plan was that on the 15th, there is a Real Madrid match, and I was going to watch it. After that, Ramzan was coming, so I had planned around that. But whatever God has scripted will happen.)

Watch the video here- 

Siraj, an avid Real Madrid fan, was resting at home after playing two four-day games and was nowhere near India’s T20 plans despite being a regular in Tests and ODIs. Harshit Rana was prioritised ahead of him, but with the Delhi pacer ruled out, the experienced Siraj was called upon for the national duties. What made his return even special is that he straightaway got a chance to be in the playing XI, as Jasprit Bumrah was sidelined with fever.

He delivered a decisive spell, finishing with figures of 3 for 29 from his four overs, and played a key role in India’s 29-run win. Siraj made an immediate impact with the new ball, removing openers Andries Gous and Saiteja Mukkamalla as the USA slipped to 13/3. The pacer then returned at the death and put the finishing touches, trapping Shubham Ranjane lbw off the final delivery.

India kicked off their title defence with a solid win against the USA. After a nervy performance with the bat, the hosts came back strong with the bowl to claim a 29-run victory.