Former England captain Alastair Cook expressed his disapproval of Mohammed Siraj’s aggressive celebration after dismissing Ben Duckett on Day Four of the ongoing Lord’s Test. Speaking on BBC Test Match Special, Cook said that Siraj shouting in Duckett’s face was over the line and should lead to disciplinary action.
“That’s Unacceptable” – Cook Slams Siraj’s Conduct
Siraj celebrated in animated fashion after removing Duckett, walking up close and appearing to shout in his face, which did not go down well with Cook.
“That’s unacceptable, but who is to blame now? Whether Duckett walked right into him and knew exactly what he was doing. Then again, you shouldn’t shout in someone’s face like that. I wholeheartedly say that was wrong. There should be no physical contact. Yes, celebrate a wicket like you mean it. But you’ve got him out; you don’t need to look him in the eye from three inches and shout in his face. So I expect there to be repercussions, and there should be repercussions. That is my opinion. I thought that crossed the line,” Cook said.
Following the incident, Mohammed Siraj has been fined 15% of his match fee for breaching the ICC Code of Conduct.
Despite calling the act unacceptable, Cook acknowledged that the emotional intensity adds flavour to Test cricket and can enhance the viewing experience.
“I loved it last night. I read a guy say it’s not good for the kids under 12 years of age or whatever – he was part of some coaching set-up as well. So I understand from that point of view. But if I have paid money to come watch it, I really want to see that. Because I know what it really means to some of the players. They are playing for their country,”added Cook.
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