An unfortunate fielding error by Mohammed Siraj handed England’s Harry Brook a crucial second chance and six runs during a tense India vs England Test match.
A Costly Boundary Line Blunder
The incident unfolded during the 34th over on Day 4 of the decisive fifth Test between India and England. Bowler Prasidh Krishna had seemingly found a breakthrough, with Harry Brook sending the ball towards the long leg boundary.
Mohammed Siraj, stationed there, initially completed what appeared to be a straightforward catch. However, in the process of securing the ball, one of his feet inadvertently touched the boundary ropes. This split-second misjudgment turned a potential wicket into six runs for England and a reprieve for Brook.
Siraj’s disappointment was palpable as he covered his face, while Prasidh Krishna’s initial celebration quickly turned to dismay. It was a moment that visibly frustrated the Indian team, highlighting the fine margins in Test cricket.
England’s Uphill Chase
England resumed their innings on Day 4 at 50 for one, chasing a formidable target of 374 set by India. Before the lunch break, India had managed to pick up key wickets, putting pressure on the English batting line-up.
Prasidh Krishna struck early, dismissing Ben Duckett for a solid 54 runs. Mohammed Siraj then accounted for stand-in skipper Ollie Pope, who looked in good touch before falling for 27. These early breakthroughs had reduced England to 164 for three by lunchtime, creating an exciting contest.
On the previous day, Siraj had also provided the first breakthrough for India, cleaning up Zak Crawley for 14, setting the tone for India’s bowling attack.
India’s Strong First Innings
India had earlier posted a strong total of 396 in their first innings. This impressive score was built on significant contributions from several batsmen.
Yashasvi Jaiswal led the charge with a magnificent 118 runs. Akash Deep also played a crucial role, scoring his maiden half-century with 66, adding valuable runs down the order. All-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar further bolstered the total, each contributing 53 runs.
Their collective effort helped India set a challenging target of 374 for England, making every run and every wicket critical in this final Test.
The Road Ahead
As the match stands, England still requires another 324 runs to win, with nine wickets in hand and two full days of play remaining. The Siraj incident has given Harry Brook a lifeline, and his partnership with Joe Root (who was on 23 at lunch) will be crucial for England’s hopes.
This match promises more twists and turns as both teams battle fiercely for supremacy in what has been a thrilling Test series.
- Mohammed Siraj’s fielding error cost India a wicket and gave Harry Brook six runs.
- Siraj’s foot touched the boundary ropes while catching, turning it into a boundary.
- England needs 324 more runs with nine wickets remaining and two days of play.
