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"He's Got Fake Angriness": Joe Root's Hilarious Take On 'Nice Lad' Mohammed Siraj

Soumyajit Dutta

Joe Root on Mohammed Siraj [Source: @Cric_Uneeb/X.com]Joe Root on Mohammed Siraj [Source: @Cric_Uneeb/X.com]

England's batting maestro Joe Root paid an extraordinary tribute to India's pace warrior Mohammed Siraj after another tireless display on Day 4 of the Oval Test, calling him the epitome of fighting spirit in modern cricket. However, he didn't miss a chance to take a dig at him while calling him out for his 'anger' drama.

Notably, Root's words for Siraj came after surviving a gruelling battle against Siraj during his 105-run knock, witnessing firsthand the 30-year-old's unique combination of skill and stamina that has made him the series' leading wicket-taker. 

Root Unveils Siraj's 'Fake Angriness'

The former England captain peeled back layers of Mohammed Siraj's on-field persona during the post-day press conference.

"He's got this fake angriness about him sometimes, which I can see straight through. He's actually a really nice lad, but he tries it incredibly hard," Root said.

Root's analysis revealed the psychological warfare that makes Siraj so compelling, the snarling competitor who transforms into a smiling gentleman after the day's play. Highlighting Siraj's series-defining contributions, Root noted his grit.

"He's a character, a warrior... There's a reason why he's got all those wickets - his work ethic and skill level," Root said. The praise carried extra weight coming from a batter who has faced deliveries from Siraj this series, more than any other Englishman.

Root Hails Siraj's Work Ethics

Joe Root didn't mince words while praising the Indian quick's work ethics as he bowled long spells with calm and no complain.

"It's because of his work ethic and skill level. I enjoy playing against him. He's always got a big smile on his face, and he'll give everything for his team. So I guess you couldn't want anything more of that as fan watching, and he’s a great example to any young players starting out," Root concluded on Siraj.

Notably, the Hyderabad speedster, leading India's attack in Jasprit Bumrah's absence, has bowled 52 energy-sapping overs across two innings, claiming 6 wickets while maintaining relentless intensity.

With England needing 35 more runs and India requiring 4 wickets on the final day, Siraj's marathon spells and Prasidh Krishna's wicket-taking grit have kept the visitors alive in this high-stakes decider.