Mohammed Siraj Fined 15% of Match Fee for Aggressive Celebration After Duckett Wicket

In a recent development during the ongoing Test series between India and England, Indian fast bowler Mohammed Siraj has been fined 15% of his match fee for breaching the ICC Code of Conduct. The fine comes in the wake of his aggressive celebration following the dismissal of England batter Ben Duckett.

The incident took place on Day 3 of the second Test at Lord’s, where Siraj dismissed Duckett with a sharp delivery that induced an edge to the slip cordon. Immediately after the wicket, Siraj was seen charging towards the batter and letting out a fiery celebration that, according to the match officials, crossed the line of acceptable conduct under ICC regulations.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) confirmed that Siraj had breached Article 2.5 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel. This article deals with “using language, actions, or gestures that disparage or that could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batter upon his/her dismissal during an international match.”

According to the ICC’s official statement, Siraj admitted the offense and accepted the sanction proposed by match referee Richie Richardson. As a result, there was no need for a formal hearing. Along with the financial penalty, one demerit point has also been added to Siraj’s disciplinary record. This is his first offense in a 24-month period.

Statement from the ICC

“Players are expected to celebrate within the spirit of the game. While passion and emotion are a part of cricket, actions that are likely to provoke the opposition or display disrespect are not acceptable,” the ICC noted in its statement.

The on-field umpires Marais Erasmus and Richard Illingworth, along with third umpire Nitin Menon and fourth umpire Alex Wharf, reported the incident immediately after the day’s play.

Reaction from Indian Team Management

While there has been no official statement from the BCCI or the Indian team management, sources close to the team indicated that Siraj had been reminded to keep his emotions in check during high-intensity moments. Siraj, known for his passionate celebrations, has always worn his heart on his sleeve, but this incident has served as a reminder of the fine line between enthusiasm and misconduct.

Public & Fan Reaction

The cricketing fraternity on social media has been divided in its response. While some fans defended Siraj’s passion and aggression as being “part of the game,” others supported the ICC’s decision to penalize behavior that may incite hostility or violate the spirit of cricket.

Former cricketers and analysts have weighed in as well. Some have highlighted the importance of maintaining composure, especially when representing the national team on an international stage like Lord’s—often referred to as the “Home of Cricket.”

What’s Next?

India currently leads the Test series 1–0, and Siraj has played a crucial role with the ball. With the third Test scheduled to begin in a few days, the Indian pacer will need to maintain his rhythm while ensuring he doesn’t land in further disciplinary trouble.

As Test cricket continues to be played with high stakes and intensity, this incident serves as a timely reminder of the need for players to balance aggression with professionalism.