The first day’s play of the third Test between England and India was marred by Mohammed Siraj facing the heat from a group of English fans. However, far from being fazed by the intimidation from the English fans, the Indian pacer decided to remind them about the 1-0 lead taken by the tourists in the series. The video of Siraj returning back to the unruly fans with a 1-0 sign has now gone viral, earning him plaudits from Indian fans.
India were bowled out for just 78 in their first innings, prompting England to bat on the first day. The hosts ended the day at 120-0, taking a lead of 42 runs with four days of play still remaining in the match.
While England were batting, a group of local fans threw a pink plastic ball near where Siraj was fielding. Unperturbed by the development, Siraj walked back towards the English fans and made 1-0 sign using his hands to remind them about the current lead taken by the Virat Kohli’s side in the series.
These english fans have no idea who they’re messing with.
Miyaan bhai ???? @mdsirajofficial !!#INDvENG #ENGvIND #Siraj pic.twitter.com/zifHYiwQdJ
— Cover Drive (@KohliChokaMarNa) August 25, 2021
Siraj’s action left not just Indian fans impressed but even former England skipper Nasser Hussain, who was in the commentary box, could not stop applauding the Indian pacer.
Mohammad siraj signalling 1-0 to the English crowd who are trolling him. pic.twitter.com/SmpMSh1GHU
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) August 25, 2021
Someone in the crowd had thrown a Pink plastic ball close to Mohammad Siraj at the boundery. And Mohammad Siraj turns around to the spectators and gestures that India are leading the series 1-0. #INDvENG pic.twitter.com/hys6BYIqDf
— CricketMAN2 (@man4_cricket) August 25, 2021
Miyan Siraj replied on his own style????#INDvENG pic.twitter.com/2gpE64dGiO
— vish ❥ (@Vishuu_18) August 25, 2021
Siraj was targeted by Aussie fans during India’s last tour Down Under. According to reports, Siraj had faced racist taunts from a section of the Aussie fans during the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.