Tears at Lord’s: Mohammed Siraj’s brave resistance ends in heartbreak for India

A gripping Test match at Lord’s came to a heartbreaking conclusion for India on Monday as England snatched a 22-run win to go 2-1 up in the five-match series.

The visitors, chasing 193, were bowled out for 170 despite a spirited lower-order fightback led by Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Siraj.

India found themselves in deep trouble at 112 for 8 just before lunch on Day Five, with Nitish Kumar Reddy’s dismissal seemingly sealing their fate. However, Jadeja held his ground firmly, crafting a determined unbeaten 61. He first stitched a 35-run partnership with Jasprit Bumrah, stretching the contest into the final session. After Bumrah fell with the score on 147, Siraj joined Jadeja and showcased unexpected resilience.

Siraj survived 29 deliveries against a probing England attack, offering India a glimmer of hope with 30 runs still required. But the pressure mounted.

In the 75th over, spinner Shoaib Bashir delivered a ball that bounced more than expected. Siraj, attempting to defend, saw it take the inside edge, roll agonisingly onto the stumps, and dislodge the bails.

That single moment ended India’s resistance and sparked jubilant celebrations from the England camp. Siraj, visibly devastated, was seen breaking down in tears as he walked off.

In a touching gesture, former England captain Joe Root was among the first to console the heartbroken fast bowler—offering a moment of sportsmanship in an otherwise intense contest marked by heated exchanges.

Jadeja’s heroic knock ultimately came in a losing cause, as England sealed a memorable win on the fifth and final day. Ben Stokes’ tactical brilliance and Jofra Archer’s fiery spells played crucial roles in turning the match England’s way.

With this dramatic win at the home of cricket, England take a 2-1 lead in what has been a fiercely competitive series. The teams now head to Nottingham for the fourth Test, with India needing a win to keep the series alive.