Mohammed Siraj Fined for Code of Conduct Breach During Intense Test Match

Siraj's Fine and Match Context

London: Indian fast bowler Mohammed Siraj has incurred a penalty of 15% of his match fee due to a violation of the ICC Code of Conduct during the Test match against England at Lord's.

The incident occurred on the fourth day when Siraj delivered an impressive opening spell, taking the wickets of Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope. Following Duckett's dismissal, Siraj celebrated near the batter, making contact as Duckett walked back towards the pavilion.

Siraj's actions were deemed a breach of Article 2.5 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which addresses 'using language, actions, or gestures that may provoke an aggressive response from a batter after their dismissal during an International Match.'

Along with the fine, Siraj has received one demerit point added to his disciplinary record, marking his second offense within a 24-month timeframe, bringing his total to two demerit points.

If a player accumulates four or more demerit points within a 24-month period, these points convert into suspension points, leading to a potential ban.

This incident was one of several heated moments in a Test match that is expected to conclude dramatically on the fifth day.

At the end of day four, India found themselves in a challenging position at 58/4, having lost Yashasvi Jaiswal, Karun Nair, and captain Shubman Gill in the last session on Sunday. With 135 runs needed for victory at this historic venue, India's hopes now rest on overnight batsman KL Rahul (33 not out) and Rishabh Pant, who will face the first delivery on Monday.

Allrounder Washington Sundar expressed confidence in India's ability to chase down the target, stating, 'Definitely, India (are) winning tomorrow. Probably just after Lunch. The position we’re in right now would have been ideal for one (wicket) at Stumps today. But the way we bowled, especially the fast bowlers, kept the pressure throughout the day, it was amazing.'