The early promise shown by the English batsmen overnight fizzled out in the morning session as the Indian bowlers struck thrice before Lunch, putting the visitors on the defensive.
Despite efforts from Ben Stokes and Ben Foakes to steady the ship, their partnership crumbled post-Lunch, with Mohammed Siraj’s fierce stare signaling the beginning of a tail-end collapse.
A promising 39-run partnership for the sixth wicket was cut short when Ravindra Jadeja tempted Stokes into a big shot, resulting in a catch for Jasprit Bumrah.
Foakes fell in the very next delivery, offering a simple catch to Rohit Sharma off Siraj’s bowling. With momentum firmly on India’s side, Siraj displayed his aggression by dismissing new batsman Hartley and punctuating the moment with a fiery stare-down.
Rohit said " Jaldi to mangao ball yaar, hum log teen over piche hai, agar ye log all out hogaye na to hmlog ko wo lagega 😭😭” pic.twitter.com/8Iqsfp8xuY
— Kuljot Singh (@KuljotSingh_4_5) February 17, 2024
— Jas Pope (@jas_pope93438) February 17, 2024
This intense exchange ignited a frenzy on social media, with the Twittverse closely following and reacting to the unfolding drama.