Day 4 of the Lord’s Test saw tempers flare as Mohammed Siraj and the Indian team were left stunned by an umpiring decision that went in Joe Root’s favor. During the 38th over, Siraj produced a sharp inswinger that beat Root’s bat and struck him in front of middle stump. The Indians were confident—it looked plumb.
But umpire Paul Reiffel stayed still. India reviewed. DRS showed the ball clipping the stumps, but just enough for ‘umpire’s call’ to stand. Root survived, and Siraj’s expression said it all—anger, disbelief, and a cold stare straight at Reiffel as he walked back to his mark.
Kumble Jabs Reiffel on Commentary: ‘Anything Close, Not Out’
The moment didn’t go unnoticed by those in the commentary box. Abhinav Mukund pointed out Siraj’s intense stare at the umpire. Jonathan Trott acknowledged how close the ball came to hitting the stumps.
But it was Anil Kumble who delivered the most biting remark of the day:
“It seems Paul Reiffel has decided that it is going to be not out. Anything close, not out.”
His tone was sarcastic, his message clear. Kumble, never one to mince words, openly questioned Reiffel’s judgment, hinting at a pattern in close calls going England’s way.
Relief for India as Sundar Strikes Back
Fortunately for India, Root didn’t make them pay. A few overs later, Washington Sundar bowled the former England captain around his legs for 40. He then dismissed Jamie Smith for 8, ensuring India regained control before Tea. England ended the session at 175/6.
Lord’s Test Headed for a Final-Day Finish
With both teams having scored 387 in their first innings, the Lord’s Test has essentially turned into a second-innings shootout. Siraj’s fire, Sundar’s breakthroughs, and the umpiring drama have all added fuel to what’s shaping up to be a thrilling end to the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy’s third chapter.
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