New Delhi: Gujarat Titans produced excellent fielding to take nine catches and one run out to bowl out Kolkata Knight Riders for 180 runs in their IPL 2026 match on Friday. Muhammad Siraj Leading the charge both on the ball and in the field.The Indian pacer, who finished with figures of 2/23 and two catches, summed up the mood with a cheeky remark during the mid-innings break: “Yeah, great catch as usual today! I’m the best fielder, you know,” he grinned.Go beyond limits with our YouTube channel. Subscribe now!Siraj’s performance was not just about moments on the field but also about rediscovering his rhythm with the ball. Reflecting on his recent struggles, he admitted that the lack of match time had affected him earlier.“During the World Cup, I played only one match. After that, I didn’t get a proper rhythm – I was just practicing. But in the last two matches, my rhythm has returned,” Siraj said.After some self-analysis progress was made. “I went back and watched videos of my bowling, especially my run-up. Bowling is all about run-up rhythm, and that’s where I realized what was missing.”He also highlighted the role of mental clarity. “Insight is very important. Sometimes emotions take over, but my mindset is to focus on what has worked for me and achieved success. I stick to the process.”GT’s fielding sets the tone.On a living level, Siraj et al Kagiso Rabada. Made initial inroads into Ahmedabad, maintaining disciplined areas despite occasional demarcations.“It was a very good wicket. With the new ball, our main task was to bowl in the right places. Even if we conceded a few fours or sixes, it was fine as long as we stuck to our plan,” explained Siraj.KKR were rocked early on and never fully recovered, despite a valiant 79ers. Cameron Greene. The Australian all-rounder fought a lone battle, bagging key contributions, but constant pressure – especially in the field – proved decisive.Siraj also credited the collective effort to the team atmosphere in IPL 2026. “Ups and downs are part of the game, but as a team we always support each other. There is positive energy, and that is very important in a long tournament.”
