“Jaake apne baap ke sath auto chalao” – Siraj Recalls MS Dhoni’s Priceless Advice on Handling Trolls and Public Opinion
Mohammed Siraj recalls MS Dhoni’s advice on ignoring outside opinions and handling trolls, saying he now values only the views of his teammates and family.
India fast bowler Mohammed Siraj has revealed the first piece of advice he received from MS Dhoni when he joined the national team, a lesson that continues to guide him through the highs and lows of his career.
Speaking in an interview quoted by The Indian Express, Siraj said Dhoni told him not to get swayed by outside opinions.
“‘Kisiki baato mein nahin aana. Jab tu achha karega, toh poori duniya tere saath rahegi, aur jab kharaab karega, yahi duniya tujhe gaali degi,’” Dhoni had told him – meaning “Don’t pay attention to what others say. When you perform well, the whole world will support you, and when you don’t, the same world will abuse you.”
Reflecting on his journey, Siraj spoke about how quickly fans’ perceptions can shift.
“Yes, the trolling was bad. 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, ‘Go and ride the auto with your father — what’s the point of this?’ You are a hero in one match and zero in another. People change that quickly?” Siraj said with a smile.
Siraj added that he has learned to shut out the external noise and focus on what truly matters.
“I decided that I don’t need outside opinion and validation. What my teammates and family think of me is important. I don’t care what others think.”
Since his debut in 2017, Siraj has grown into one of India’s frontline pacers, particularly in Test cricket, where his consistency and aggression have made him a key member of the red-ball setup. Dhoni’s advice, he says, remains a cornerstone of his mental strength both on and off the field.
