The combination of chemistry between Team India’s two fiery personalities, Virat Kohli and Mohammed Siraj, was on full display in the ongoing fourth Test of the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Melbourne.
On day four of the thrilling Boxing Day Test between India and Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Virat Kohli once again showed why he is loved by fans all over the world. Kohli’s affectionate gesture towards teammate Mohammed Siraj left Indian fans in awe at the MCG.
Virat Kohli wins fans over with his enthusiastic support for Mohammed Siraj
As the crowd at the MCG chanted “Kohli, Kohli” during Siraj’s warm-up, the former Indian captain, known for his aggression and leadership on the field, decided to turn the spotlight on the Indian bowler on the fourth day of the tournament. Ongoing Boxing Day testing.
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As Mohammed Siraj was advancing, Virat Kohli walked towards the Indian fans and motioned for them to cheer for the Indian pacer instead. In recognition of his gesture, fans quickly turned their chants to “DSP, DSP”, the nickname given to Siraj by fans, in reference to his role as Deputy Superintendent of Police.
Not only this, Kohli made sure that the energy of the Indian crowd would not diminish, as he continued to encourage the fans to cheer louder as Siraj lunged at Mitchell Starc. Notably, Siraj was honored with the post of Deputy Superintendent of Police in October 2024 by the Telangana government for his contribution to India’s victory in the 2024 T20 World Cup.
Watch Virat Kohli’s affectionate gesture towards Mohammed Siraj here:
Virat Kohli asks the audience to cheer for Siraj
– The King’s Man at the MCG. pic.twitter.com/iF8fUembl1
—Jones. (@CricCrazyJohns) December 29, 2024
Notably, Kohli’s sincere gesture towards Siraj won the hearts of fans who praised him and called him a ‘true leader’. Social media was flooded with admiration, with one user writing: “He is our true king, the true leader.” Another commented: “Nice gesture from Kohli,” while a third added: “Virat knows how to lift spirits! Siraj is on fire, and the crowd at the MCG knows it.”
Indian bowlers are in contention with Australia ending the fourth day at 228/9 with a lead of 333
Meanwhile, Mohammed Siraj bounced back in style at the MCG on day four after a challenging first innings where he came back wicketless against Australia. Bowling with great precision and heart, the Indian picked up three crucial wickets in Australia’s second innings.
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Siraj dismissed key players Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith and Usman Khawaja on Day 4 of the ongoing Boxing Day Test. At the end of play on day four, Australia stood strong at 228/9 in the second innings, taking a 333-run lead against India at the MCG.
Nathan Lyon remains unbeaten with 41, joined by Scott Bolland on 10*. The duo put together a crucial final-wicket partnership of 55* runs, frustrating the Indian bowlers and adding valuable runs to Australia’s lead to make it a difficult task for the tourists in the ongoing fourth Test match.
Earlier, Kohli faced controversy in the MCG Test. On day one, the off-spinning right-hander had a heated moment with Australian debutant Sam Konstas after suffering a shoulder injury, prompting Usman Khawaja to step in and calm things down. Later, Kohli was booed by the Australian crowd on day two at the MCG
