'Sir, we weren't even born': Mohammed Siraj hails 1983 World Cup hero, says ‘your story inspires us'

NEW DELHI: India pacer and Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy hero Mohammed Siraj on Sunday paid heartfelt tribute to 1983 World Cup-winning wicketkeeper Syed Kirmani, calling him a source of inspiration for younger generations, during the Hyderabad launch of Kirmani's autobiography 'Stumped: Life Behind and Beyond The Twenty-Two Yards'.

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The event marked the book's release in Hyderabad after its Bengaluru debut.


Addressing Kirmani, Siraj said: "Sir, when you won the 1983 World Cup, we were not even born. It has been a motivating and inspiring story of yours. I have heard from many players, your reflexes behind the wickets were extraordinary. Thank you so much for everything for the Indian cricket team.”


Kirmani, in turn, lauded Siraj's recent performances, particularly in the Test series against England.

“You performed really well. My congratulations to you. You have brought glory to the country with your exuberance… that aggressiveness right from the heart it was. I wish you every success,” he said.



Former India captain Mohammed Azharuddin described Kirmani as a jovial figure who was well-liked in the dressing room, adding, “It is important that he released it in Hyderabad also. He will guide many wicketkeepers and cricketers in the future. I would definitely urge all the young wicketkeepers to go to ‘Kiri bhai'. I think he is one of the finest wicketkeepers the world has ever produced.”

The book offers readers an inside look into Kirmani's illustrious cricketing career and life beyond the pitch.

Catch Lovlina Borgohain's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 5. Watch Here