Indian fast bowler Mohammed Siraj suffered a personal tragedy on Friday (November 20), as his father Mohammed Ghouse passed away at the age of 53 due to a lung ailment in Hyderabad. Siraj, who is currently in Sydney with the Indian cricket team, heard the news after returning from practice.

“It is shocking. I lost the biggest support of my life. It was his dream to see me play for the country and I am glad that way I could realise that and bring joy for him,” a distraught Siraj told Sportstar. “The coach Shastri Sir and captain Virat Kohli were informed about the news. They just told me to be bold and are lending all the support,” he added.

IPL 2020: WATCH - Mohammed Siraj reveals his father was hospitalised before KKR match

“My dad's wish was always this - mera beta, desh ka naam roshan karna (my son, you should make my country proud). And, I will do that for sure. I know what kind of hardship my dad faced in my early days driving an auto rickshaw to let me pursue my passion for the game,” Siraj recalled.

The 26-year-old fast bowler had an impressive season for Royal Challengers Bangalore in IPL 2020, before being picked in India's Test squad for the tour of Australia. He also has represented the country in 1 ODI and 3 T20Is. 

He won't be able to attend the last rites of his father with the strict quarantine rules in place.

(With Sportstar inputs)