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"Where’s Bazball Now?" Siraj Taunts Joe Root On His Face During Heated Face-Off In Lord's Test

Debashis Sarangi

Siraj sledges Joe Root [Source: @OneCricketApp/X]Siraj sledges Joe Root [Source: @OneCricketApp/X]

The third Test between India and England witnessed a heated moment when Mohammed Siraj went under the skin of legendary batter Joe Root. The experienced players had a tough battle as Siraj continuously challenged Root, with not only his lethal spell but also a fiery sledge. 

Siraj Challenges Root To Play Bazball In Tricky Batting Conditions

Since Brendon McCullum has taken over the reins as their head coach in Tests, England have been a lot more aggressive in their batting approach. Famously called as "Bazball", the attacking game-play has been a trademark strategy for the English batters in Test cricket. 

However, the bowling-friendly conditions on day 1 morning of the Lord's Test demanded patience and determination from the England batters. After losing Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett in a single over, the hosts went into the shell, with Joe Root and Ollie Pope leading their resurrection. 

Meanwhile, the Indian bowlers, especially Siraj and Bumrah, kept things tight, posing regular threats to the English duo by hitting the corridor of uncertainty. Siraj's encounter with Joe Root was fascinating, with the fast bowler causing real problems for the English mainstay with his immaculate seam bowling. 

Root was struggling to get going, and Siraj grabbed the golden opportunity of further demoralising him by exchanging a few words with him. As soon as he finished his over, the Indian pacer aggressively went near Root, challenging him to play aggressively and continue the Bazball trend on a relatively tricky deck. 

However, Root didn't utter a single word, focusing on negotiating the tough phase. Siraj's aggressive intent became a major highlight in the second session, allowing the spectators to enjoy an exciting passage of play. 

Despite Siraj and Bumrah's exceptional post-lunch spell, India have yet to break the third wicket stand. As of writing, the hosts were 101 for two, with Root and Pope batting on 30* and 21*, respectively.