Mohammed Siraj showcased his sportsmanship by wearing a headband to honour late England cricket legend Graham Thorpe during the fifth Test match against England at The Oval. While delivering an outstanding bowling performance, Siraj claimed four crucial wickets, leading India’s comeback in the post-lunch session and becoming the series’ leading wicket-taker with 18 scalps.The second day of the Test match was dedicated to Graham Thorpe, who passed away in August last year. The English players wore headbands as a tribute to one of cricket’s finest left-handed batter. Despite not being mandatory for visiting players, Siraj chose to participate in this gesture of remembrance.
This was not Siraj’s first display of respect during the series. Earlier, he had dedicated a wicket celebration to Liverpool and Portugal footballer Diogo Jota, who lost his life in a road accident in June.Siraj’s bowling performance proved decisive in changing the course of the match. England, who had started strongly at 92-0 and later 129-1, were restricted to 247 runs, managing only a 23-run first-innings lead.The post-lunch session witnessed Siraj’s exceptional bowling spell. His sharp in-swinging deliveries dismantled England’s middle order, claiming the important wickets of Ollie Pope and Joe Root through LBW decisions.Jacob Bethell, making his series debut, became Siraj’s third victim, falling to another LBW decision. The Indian fast bowler completed his four-wicket haul by dismissing Harry Brook, the last England batsman, with an in-swinging delivery that hit the stumps.Siraj’s performance in the series has been remarkable. His 18 wickets put him ahead of England captain Ben Stokes, who has 17 wickets despite playing one game less. This achievement is particularly noteworthy as Siraj has been one of only two pacers, alongside Chris Woakes, to participate in all five Tests of the series.
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