Siraj explains Cristiano Ronaldo celebration as Titans beat RCB in IPL

Mohammed Siraj explained his imitation of Cristiano Ronaldo's celebration in Gujarat Titans' eight-wicket win over Royal Challengers Bengaluru was to show "that I am here".

The India quick finished with figures of 3-19 against his former team, who opted not to retain him despite an impressive 2024 season.

After taking the wicket of Phil Salt just one ball after being launched for a lengthy six, Siraj broke out Real Madrid great Ronaldo's "Siu" celebration.

Asked about it after being named Player of the Match, Siraj said: "I did to show that I am here, and I am a Cristiano Ronaldo fan as well."

Chased our first away win in #TATAIPL2025 in style! pic.twitter.com/DVOV4xG3od
— Gujarat Titans (@gujarat_titans) April 2, 2025

Speaking about playing against his former team, Siraj added: "It was emotional because I played for seven years here.

"There was some nervousness and some emotion but the moment I got the ball in my hand, it was full-on.

"I was playing matches consistently, so I was not realising the mistakes I was making.

"In the break, I focused on my bowling, on my fitness and when I joined GT, I spoke to Ashu bhai (Ashish Nehra) and the ball is coming out nicely now.

"He asked me to just enjoy myself and do whatever I wanted.

"As a bowler, I want to always have belief - that is an important thing. If that is not there, you panic.

"I have belief that I can do well, irrespective of wherever I am playing and that is my mindset."

The Titans moved fourth in the IPL standings with two wins from three matches, while RCB are ahead of them in third due to a superior net run rate.