Team India faced a heartbreaking 22-run defeat in the third Test against England at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground. The loss stung deeply, not just because of the narrow margin but also because of the emotional scenes that followed, particularly involving pacer Mohammad Siraj. As India collapsed chasing 193, it was Siraj’s unfortunate dismissal that ended the match — and the bowler, overwhelmed with emotion, was seen crying as he walked off.

Days later, on July 15, the Indian men’s and women’s cricket teams were invited to St. James' Palace in London, where they met King Charles III. It was a moment of pride and cultural significance, but also one that brought a surprising show of empathy. Team India’s current Test captain, Shubman Gill, opened up about the conversation that took place with the King. In a touching revelation, Gill said King Charles had watched the Lord’s Test and specifically mentioned Siraj’s dismissal.

Gill shared, “It was wonderful to meet King Charles III. He was very warm and kind during our interaction. We had a great conversation. What stood out was when he told us that the way Siraj got out was very sad. He said the ball just rolled and hit the stumps.” Gill added, “We told him the match itself didn’t go our way, but we are focused on making a strong comeback in the next two Tests.”

The moment King Charles referred to was when India needed just 23 runs to win. Ravindra Jadeja and Siraj were at the crease, and the tension was at its peak. Siraj, trying to defend a ball from England’s Shoaib Bashir, watched in disbelief as it hit the pitch, bounced awkwardly, and trickled onto his stumps. It was a cruel end, and his reaction — breaking down on the field — became one of the most talked-about visuals of the match.

The third Test saw England post 387 in their first innings, matched exactly by India’s 387, led by significant contributions from the middle order. England, in their second innings, could only manage 192, giving India a modest target of 193. But the Indian batting lineup faltered, and despite a gritty unbeaten 61 from Ravindra Jadeja, the visitors were bowled out for 170.

With the series now standing at 2-1 in England’s favor, the fourth Test is set to begin on July 23 at Old Trafford, Manchester. India will look to regroup, recover, and possibly turn the emotional setback at Lord’s into inspiration for a comeback — one that even King Charles might be watching closely.