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WATCH: Siraj Nearly Hits Pakistani Umpire, Jadeja's Reaction Goes Viral
Prateek Thakur | August 18, 2026 2:41 PM CST

Mohammed Siraj's powerful throw from the deep nearly gave substitute umpire Ahsan Raza a major scare during Day 3 of the first Test between India and Sri Lanka in Galle. The throw narrowly missed Raza, who quickly moved out of the way, while Ravindra Jadeja was left amused by the incident. The moment has since gone viral on social media.

Siraj's Throw Leaves Substitute Umpire Surprised

The incident took place during Sri Lanka's first innings on Day 3, with Ahsan Raza officiating on the field after Rod Tucker was unavailable.

Siraj fielded the ball in the deep before unleashing a powerful throw towards the wicket. However, the delivery travelled dangerously close to Raza, who had to react quickly to avoid being hit.

Jadeja, who was nearby, appeared to see the funny side of the incident. His reaction added to the entertainment, with the moment quickly catching the attention of viewers watching the match.

Sony Sports Network also shared the clip on social media with the playful caption: "Siraj, aaraam se! Ek umpire toh pehle hi sub ho chuke hain!" (Siraj, take it easy! One umpire has already had to be replaced!)

India Take 178-Run Lead In Galle

The funny moment came during an impressive day for India's bowling attack.

India bowled Sri Lanka out for 284 after posting 462 in their first innings, securing a 178-run lead.

Manav Suthar was the standout bowler for India, taking 4/76 after making an immediate impact with a wicket from his first delivery. Ravindra Jadeja supported him with 3/57 and also reached the landmark of 350 Test wickets during the innings.

Kuldeep Yadav, Siraj and Prasidh Krishna claimed one wicket each as India kept Sri Lanka under pressure for large periods.

Dinusha, Dickwella Delay Sri Lanka Collapse

Sri Lanka had been reduced to 90/5 before Sonal Dinusha and Niroshan Dickwella staged a remarkable recovery.

The pair added 146 runs for the sixth wicket, taking advantage of the older ball as it became softer and less threatening.

Dinusha completed his maiden Test century from 168 balls, while Dickwella scored 80 off 115 deliveries.

Dickwella's dismissal eventually triggered the final collapse. Prasidh Krishna produced an excellent delivery with the old ball to remove him, before India wrapped up the innings at 284.

Despite the resistance, India retained a sizeable first-innings advantage, while Siraj's near-miss with Raza provided one of the lighter moments from an otherwise dominant day for the visitors.

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