New Delhi: Gujarat Titans put up a defensive performance of the highest quality, grabbing 9 catches and beating Kolkata Knight Riders by 180 runs in IPL 2026 on Friday, Mohammad Siraj Leading both on the ball and on the field.The India pacer, who finished with 2/23 and two catches, summed up the mood at half-time with a cheeky line: “Yeah, the catch was very good today, as always! I’m the best fielder, you know,” he said with a smile.Push boundaries with our YouTube channel. Subscribe now!Siraj’s performance is not just about his moments on the field, but also about rediscovering his rhythm with the ball. Reflecting on his recent struggles, he admitted that a lack of game time affected him early on.“During the World Cup, I played only one match. After that, I didn’t find the right rhythm – I was just practicing. But in the last two games, my rhythm came back,” Siraj said.After some self-analysis, a breakthrough was achieved. “I went back and watched my bowling videos, especially my run-up. Bowling is all about the pace of the run-up and that’s where I realized what was missing.”He also emphasized the role of mental clarity. “Visualization is very important. Sometimes emotions take over, but my mindset is to focus on what works for me and brings success. I stick to the process.”GT’s defense sets the toneOn the active surface, Siraj and Kamuzeng Rabada They made early progress in Ahmedabad, holding on to discipline despite occasional boundaries.“It was a very good wicket. With the new ball, our main task is to bowl it in the right areas. Even if we concede a few fours or sixes, it doesn’t matter as long as we stick to our plan,” Siraj explained.KKR were shaken early and never fully recovered despite a heroic 79 Cameron Green. The Australian all-rounder put up a lone battle to stitch up crucial partnerships, but relentless pressure – especially on the pitch – proved decisive.Siraj also attributed the team environment in IPL 2026 to the collective effort. “Ups and downs are part of the game, but as a team we always have each other’s backs. There’s positive energy, which is very important in a long game.”
