Watch: Mohammed Siraj fumes in frustration after Yashasvi Jaiswal drops 4th catch-OxBig News Network

India pacer Mohammed Siraj was visibly furious on Day 5 of the Headingley Test after teammate Yashasvi Jaiswal dropped yet another crucial catch — his fourth of the match — this time giving Ben Duckett a life on 97. The costly drop added to India’s mounting frustration as England’s openers continued to stand firm in their steep 371-run chase.

While the Headingley Test has largely highlighted India’s top-order batting brilliance, the fielding has painted a far gloomier picture — one that may yet determine the match’s final outcome. Jaiswal, who had already dropped three catches in the first innings, shelled a fourth at deep square leg, despite covering significant ground to reach the top-edged pull from Duckett.

ENG vs IND 1st Test Day 5 Updates

Siraj, who induced the error with a well-directed short ball, couldn’t hide his frustration. The pacer punched the air in anger — a reflection of how crucial that moment was for India, who were desperately hunting for their first breakthrough in the final innings.

To make matters worse, Duckett reached his century just a few deliveries later, rubbing salt into India’s wounds. With both openers — Duckett and Zak Crawley — staying resolute at the crease, even India’s spearhead Jasprit Bumrah struggled to make any dents in England’s chase.

Jaiswal’s reaction said it all — disappointment written all over his face. He stood still for a moment, shoulders heavy, trying to gather himself after the costly miss. Prasidh Krishna walked over to offer some quiet reassurance, but the young fielder, clearly rattled, slowly turned and trudged back to his spot without a word.

Earlier in the match, India’s fielding woes had already come under scrutiny. Bumrah himself was seen visibly upset after multiple missed chances, including three drops of Harry Brook — who narrowly missed out on a century, dismissed for 99.

India’s wait for a wicket finally ended post a short rain delay, when Prasidh Krishna removed Crawley for 65. But by then, England had already chipped away at a significant portion of the target, and India’s road to a positive result looked increasingly steep.

As it stands, India’s inability to convert chances — particularly Jaiswal’s dropped catches — may end up being the defining factor in what’s been a tense, gripping Test match at Headingley.

– Ends