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". (Match Blog | Points Table | Full Coverage)
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."
Speaking about playing against his former team, Siraj added: "It was emotional because I played for seven years here.Â
"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.Â
"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.
