India now trail England 2–1 in the five-match Test series after a heartbreaking 22‑run loss at Lord’s. The defeat saw Mohammed Siraj playing a bittersweet role: he was the final wicket to fall, sealing India’s downfall after a gritty lower-order resurgence. The spotlight at Lord’s belonged to Ravindra Jadeja, whose counter-attacking efforts alongside tail‑enders Jasprit Bumrah and Siraj brought India back into contention.
Jadeja’s resolve was tested when Siraj, batting tenaciously, survived 29 balls before edging a defensive stroke onto his stumps—a cruel end to a valiant effort. Following the loss, the team took two days’ rest before intensive training sessions commenced in preparation for Manchester.
During one session, a viral video from RevSportz showed Siraj and Rishabh Pant standing outside the dressing room. At the same time, devotional verses from the Hanuman Chalisa echoed within, igniting a social media debate as Siraj was drawn into an unexpected cultural controversy.
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Away from external narratives, Siraj’s workload is a growing talking point. With Jasprit Bumrah resting and closely monitored, Siraj has stepped up as India’s lead seamer. He’s one of the few Indian pacers to feature in every Test so far on this tour, picking up 13 wickets and bowling the highest number of overs among his peers. His six‑wicket haul at Edgbaston proved his capacity to lead India’s pace attack when required.
🚨”Hanuman Chalisa” sets the tone in Team India’s Dressing Room!@rohitjuglan @Wowmomo4u #ENGvIND pic.twitter.com/9WixalVCmU
— RevSportz Global (@RevSportzGlobal) July 17, 2025
India now resumes preparation with a high-priority training session, featuring the Hanuman Chalisa, held in the mornings before travel to Manchester on July 19. Siraj, central to the seam plans, will be expected to manage his workload judiciously as the team heads to the fourth Test.
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The stage is set for a dramatic turnaround. Siraj’s gritty batting, growing bowling responsibility, and ability to handle pressure may prove pivotal. As India seeks to regain momentum in Manchester, striking a balance between performance and composure will be crucial. Siraj, with both bat and ball, will be under focus, not just for wickets, but as a barometer of India’s resilience away from home.
