Mohammed Siraj Pens Emotional Farewell to Strength Coach Soham Desai

Indian fast bowler Mohammed Siraj has written an emotional note to bid farewell to Soham Desai, Team India’s strength and conditioning coach, whose tenure with the team has ended ahead of the five-Test series against England.

Siraj took to social media to express his heartfelt gratitude towards Desai, describing him as someone who made a deep impact on both his career and personal growth.

“You Were a Mentor and a Brother”

Siraj did not hold back his emotions in his tribute. He said Desai was much more than a trainer — he was a mentor, guide, and elder brother.

“It’s never easy to say goodbye to someone who’s been more than just a coach. This is not the end but see you later,” Siraj wrote.

Desai joined Team India in 2021 and served under three head coaches — Ravi Shastri, Rahul Dravid, and current head coach Gautam Gambhir. During this time, he played a key role in improving the fitness and conditioning of players, especially fast bowlers like Siraj.

Hard Work and Belief in Tough Times

Siraj recalled how Desai supported him during some of the most difficult phases of his career. He credited Desai for shaping him into a mentally and physically stronger player.

“Your belief lifted me when I wanted to give up. The sessions were hard, the grind was real, but you made me feel capable of more — and you were right,” Siraj wrote.

He added that Desai’s efforts went far beyond the gym or training ground. His constant support and motivation helped many players develop a winning mindset.

Not Part of England Tour

Soham Desai will not travel with the Indian squad for the England tour, which begins on June 20 at Headingley in Leeds. His absence will be felt by the players, especially Siraj.

“Your presence will be missed in the dressing room, the gym, and every sprint we run,” Siraj shared.

He ended his message with a warm farewell:

“Thank you for everything, bhai. Wishing you all the success and happiness in your next journey.”

Siraj’s Focus Turns to England After IPL

After being left out of the Champions Trophy 2025, Siraj bounced back in the IPL 2025. Playing for Gujarat Titans, he picked up 16 wickets in 15 matches. Although GT were knocked out by Mumbai Indians in the Eliminator, Siraj looked sharp and determined.

In one key moment during the knockout game, Siraj managed to get an edge off Rohit Sharma, but Kusal Mendis dropped a straightforward catch. That missed opportunity proved costly as MI went on to win.

Despite the setback, Siraj is looking ahead. The tour of England presents a fresh opportunity for him to re-establish himself in the Test arena.

Big Challenge Awaits in England

The upcoming Test series against Ben Stokes’ England will be a crucial part of India’s World Test Championship (WTC) campaign. Siraj will likely play a major role in India’s pace attack, especially with conditions in England favoring seam bowlers.

With the emotional goodbye to his trainer behind him, Siraj now shifts focus to making an impact with the red ball — a challenge he seems more than ready to embrace.

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