Indian fast bowler Mohammed Siraj has opened up about how former India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s advice helped him handle online trolling during tough times.
Siraj, who has been a key part of India’s Test bowling attack, said that while good performances earn praise, even a slight dip in form invites harsh criticism. Speaking to The Indian Express, Siraj recalled that Dhoni had given him valuable guidance early in his career.
Dhoni’s Wise Words
“When I first joined the Indian team, Dhoni bhai told me not to be influenced by anyone,” Siraj said. “He said: Jab tu acha karega, toh poori duniya tumhare saath rahegi, aur jab kharaab karega, yahi duniya tujhe gaali degi. (when you perform well, the entire world will support you. But if your form dips, the same people will start criticizing you.)”
On Facing Trolls
Siraj admitted that facing trolling can be tough, but he has learned not to let it affect him. “When you perform, the fans and the world will be with you and say ‘there is no bowler like Siraj’. In the next game, if you don’t perform, they will say, ‘Arre, what sort of bowler is this. Jaake apne baap ke saath auto chalao’ (go and ride the auto with your father) — what’s the point of this? You are hero in one match and zero in another. People change that quickly,” he shared with a laugh.
“I Don’t Care Anymore”
The pacer added that he no longer pays attention to outside opinion and validation. “What my teammates and family think of me is important, people who matter. I don’t care what others think,” he said.
