Indian fast bowler Mohammed Siraj has added a new title to his name — not just a cricketer, but now “DSP Siraj.”
Fans across the country are proudly calling him this, and the nickname has even taken over social media. But what’s the real story behind this name? Let’s break down how Siraj became a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) in Telangana and why this honor means much more than just a title.
Siraj’s Journey: From Hyderabad Streets to Indian Cricket Star
Mohammed Siraj’s story is one of determination and humility. Born and raised in Hyderabad, Siraj started from a modest background. His father was an auto-rickshaw driver, and his mother worked hard to support the family. Despite financial challenges, Siraj pursued his dream of becoming a cricketer — a dream that led him to represent India in all formats of the game.
His breakout moment came during India’s 2020–21 Border Gavaskar Trophy win in Australia, where his fiery spells and emotional debut made him a household name. Since then, Siraj has become a consistent performer for India, especially in Test cricket.
Why Fans Call Him “DSP Siraj”
Honorary Appointment as Deputy Superintendent of Police
The title “DSP Siraj” is not a meme — it’s an official recognition.
On October 11, 2024, the Telangana Government appointed Mohammed Siraj as an honorary Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP).
DGP of Telangana congralutated the new DSP Mohammed Siraj. 🔥 pic.twitter.com/71hALh94J0
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) October 11, 2024
Congratulations to Shri Mohammed Siraj, DSP!
— Telangana Police (@TelanganaCOPs) August 4, 2025
For his stellar performance in India's historic Test win against England!
Pride of Telangana | Hero in Uniform & Sport pic.twitter.com/K9pH247kgT
The appointment was announced by Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, who praised Siraj for his contribution to Indian cricket and for bringing glory to Telangana through his international performances, including India’s T20 World Cup victory earlier that year.
Siraj officially took charge at the Telangana DGP office, in the presence of DGP Jitender and senior police officials.
Special Exemption by Telangana Government
Normally, to become a DSP, a person must have a graduation degree.
However, Siraj has completed only his 12th standard (Intermediate) education.
Recognizing his exceptional contribution to Indian sports, the Telangana Cabinet made a special exemption for him under Group-I government service, allowing him to directly assume the rank of DSP — a rare honor in Indian sports history.
| Requirement | Standard Rule | Siraj’s Case |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Education | Graduate Degree | 12th Pass (Exemption Granted) |
| Type of Post | Group-I (High-ranking Officer) | Honorary Appointment |
| Appointment Date | 11th October 2024 | Took Charge Officially on 12th October 2024 |
| Department | Telangana Police | Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) |
| Additional Reward | 600 sq. yards plot in Jubilee Hills | Granted by Telangana Government |
Does DSP Siraj Have Police Powers?
Yes — technically, as a Deputy Superintendent of Police, Siraj has the authority and privileges of the position, including administrative and disciplinary powers.
However, it has been clarified that he will not be serving full-time in the police department right now.
This post is honorary, meant to recognize his achievements and inspire young sportspersons. In the future, like Joginder Sharma (DSP, Haryana Police), Siraj can choose to serve in the police force after his cricketing career.
Fans’ Reaction: “Coming to Arrest the Batsmen!”
After his appointment and especially during the IPL 2025 season, the nickname “DSP Siraj” went viral.
During his stellar performance for Gujarat Titans (GT), where he dismissed top-order batsmen like Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma, fans flooded social media with police-themed memes and captions like:
“DSP Siraj arrested two batsmen today!”
“Siraj coming to arrest the opposition!”
This wave of admiration showed how fans turned his honorary title into a symbol of respect and entertainment.
Siraj’s IPL 2025 Chapter: A Fresh Start
In the IPL 2025 mega auction, Mohammed Siraj was picked up by Gujarat Titans for a massive ₹12.25 crore.
His arrival bolstered GT’s already strong pace lineup featuring Kagiso Rabada, Prasidh Krishna, and Ishant Sharma.
Siraj’s fiery spells have already started paying dividends, making him a crucial part of GT’s comeback campaign.
Read more: IPL 2026 Released Players
Legacy Behind the Badge
Siraj’s rise from humble beginnings to wearing the DSP uniform reflects grit, discipline, and pride.
The honorary post isn’t just a symbol — it’s a message from Telangana that talent, perseverance, and national service deserve recognition beyond the field.
He now stands among a few Indian cricketers honored similarly, like:
| Cricketer | State Police Force | Designation |
|---|---|---|
| Harbhajan Singh | Punjab Police | DSP |
| Joginder Sharma | Haryana Police | DSP |
| Harmanpreet Kaur | Punjab Police | DSP |
| Mohammed Siraj | Telangana Police | DSP (Honorary) |
Like to know? What is a Casual Contract in Cricket?
Conclusion
“DSP Siraj” is more than a catchy nickname — it’s a story of recognition, resilience, and respect.
From the narrow streets of Hyderabad to international stadiums, and now to a prestigious police post, Mohammed Siraj represents what dreams can achieve when matched with hard work.
As fans cheer for him in IPL 2025 and beyond, every wicket he takes now feels like an “arrest” — not of criminals, but of world-class batters.
