Former England captain Nasser Hussain believes Mohammed Siraj’s crucial missed catch of Harry Brook during the fifth Test at The Oval might overshadow his otherwise impressive performance in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series. The incident occurred on day four when Brook was at 19 runs, and Siraj’s attempt to catch resulted in stepping on the boundary, giving away six runs instead.The missed opportunity proved costly as Brook went on to score 111 runs, his tenth Test century, positioning England for a potential 3-1 series victory.
On the first ball of the 35th over, Siraj, who had just returned from a brief break, attempted to catch Brook’s shot off Prasidh but stepped on the boundary cushion while doing so.“Siraj has done so much in the series – leading wicket-taker, all his heart and passion – but may be remembered for the catch that wasn’t (taken when Brook was on 19). That is the game, I’m afraid, and that was a game-changing moment. If Brook goes there, England may be in a bit of bother. Does Siraj have anything left now? That light on the petrol gauge is on,” Hussain commented during the tea break.Hussain praised Brook’s performance, stating: “He got his tempo spot-on, which allowed Root to go at his own pace at the other end. Brook has power but also beautiful speed with his hands, getting through the ball. He pounces on anything wide. He has 10 hundreds in 50 innings, which is just incredible, and he has a huge future because he has a hunger for runs. I can’t see him fading away and getting just 30s or 40s because he loves batting.“Joe Root remained unbeaten at 98 runs, showing promise to complete both his century and the run chase for England.“Root has played in a Root way, barely playing a shot in anger and just stroking the ball. I don’t know if I have ever seen him play the cover drive as well as he has today, which is a big statement because he cover drives so well. While he is there, England will feel comfortable,” Hussain added.Former England captain Michael Atherton shared his thoughts on India’s chances of victory: “I think this is done (and that England will win), but given how this extraordinary series has gone, you wouldn’t put your mortgage on it. That thrilling counterattack from Brook, plus the fact Root is still there, has shifted the momentum in England’s favour.”
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How significant do you think Siraj’s missed catch was in the outcome of the match?
Atherton acknowledged India’s resilient spirit, saying: “You never give up in a Test match, and we have seen enough of this India team to know they will not quit, they will keep fighting. Every time they have looked down and out in this series, they have taken games deep, so don’t rule out an early wicket. But England have the game in the palm of their hand.”England needs to chase 374 runs for victory in this final Test match of the series.
