ENG vs IND 2025: Alastair Cook criticises Mohammed Siraj for 'unacceptable' celebration after Ben Duckett's dismissal

The Indian team maintained a fiery presence on Day 4 of the third Test at Lord’s, continuing their aggressive tactics against the England batters. Following a tense final over on Day 3, which saw several verbal exchanges with England’s openers, India didn’t hold back and kept the pressure on with a charged-up attitude.

Mohammed Siraj, known for his passionate on-field attitude, was at the center of the action. The pace bowler added intensity to the game by constantly challenging the England batters and making life uncomfortable at the crease. His energy peaked when he dismissed Ben Duckett and delivered a fiery send-off, which drew plenty of attention.

The incident sparked criticism from former England captain Alastair Cook, who took issue with Siraj’s over-the-top reaction. Cook expressed concern over the level of aggression, particularly from a bowler of Siraj’s stature, questioning whether such celebrations were in the spirit of the game during an already heated contest.

Alastair Cook Criticises Siraj’s Celebration Action:

Veteran England captain Alastair Cook felt Mohammed Siraj’s celebration went overboard. He believed there was no reason for the Indian pacer to shout directly at Ben Duckett after dismissing him. He further stated that such behavior was unnecessary and suggested that Siraj should face consequences for his on-field conduct during Day 4 of the Lord’s Test.

On BBC Test Match Special, Cook said, “ That’s unacceptable, but who is to blame now? Whether Duckett walked right into him and knew exactly what he was doing. Then again, you shouldn’t shout in someone’s face like that. I wholeheartedly say that was wrong. There should be no physical contact. Yes, celebrate a wicket like you mean it. But you’ve got him out; you don’t need to look him in the eye from three inches and shout in his face. So I expect there to be repercussions, and there should be repercussions. That is my opinion. I thought that crossed the line.”

Siraj Faces Consequences for His Action:

Indian fast bowler Mohammed Siraj has been fined 15% of his match fee after a tense exchange with England opener Ben Duckett during the third Test at Lord’s. The incident took place on Sunday, July 13, during a fiery spell from the pacer.

Siraj was found guilty of committing a Level 1 offence under the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel. The fine was imposed due to his on-field behavior, which was deemed to breach the code of conduct set by the ICC. This penalty reflects the seriousness with which the ICC views player discipline and conduct.