The fourth day of the third Test match between India and England at Lord’s was particularly heated.
Siraj Fined for Aggressive Celebration After Duckett Dismissal
Indian fast bowler Mohammed Siraj had to pay a heavy price for celebrating loudly after dismissing Ben Duckett. Siraj has been fined 15% of his match fee and has been given a demerit point.
This punishment has been given for violating Level 1 of the ICC’s Code of Conduct.
It was on Sunday, when the sixth over of England’s second innings was going on. Siraj dismissed English opener Ben Duckett and then went close to him and celebrated in such a way that the ICC felt it was too much.
The ICC described it as “aggressive behavior with the dismissed batsman”,
which violates section 2.5 of their code of conduct. This section prohibits such celebrations that can provoke the batsman.
Siraj’s celebration was so passionate that on-field umpires Paul Reiffel, Sharafuddaula Ibne Shahid, third umpire Ahsan Raza and fourth umpire Graham Lloyd objected to it.
A Warning Sign: Second Demerit Point in 24 Months
Siraj admitted his mistake without any argument and accepted the punishment of match referee Richie Richardson. Because of this, there was no formal hearing.
This is Siraj’s second demerit point in the last 24 months. His first demerit point was received in the Adelaide Test against Australia on 7 December 2024 last year.
If a player accumulates four or more demerit points in 24 months, he can be banned. That means Siraj will now have to play a little carefully!
This passionate style of Siraj is nothing new for cricket fans. He is known for his anger and passion, but this time his celebration became a topic of discussion at Lord’s ground.
Fans are divided on social media – some are praising Siraj’s passion, while others believe that he should control it a bit.
India and England are facing a tough competition in this Test match going on at Lord’s. Siraj’s fine may be in the headlines, but his focus will now be on the next day’s game.
Will Siraj trouble England again with his bowling? Only time will tell!
