Key Points

Indian fast bowler Mohamed Siraj paid a touching tribute to the late Diogo Jota during the Lord's Test. He celebrated a wicket by displaying Jota's iconic No. 20 jersey number. Jota, a Liverpool star, tragically died in a car crash last week. Teammate Kuldeep Yadav also shared a heartfelt message honoring Jota's legacy.

Key Points: Siraj Honors Late Diogo Jota With No. 20 Tribute at Lord's Test

  • Siraj dedicated his wicket celebration to late Liverpool star Diogo Jota
  • Jota and his brother died in a tragic car crash in Spain
  • Kuldeep Yadav mourned Jota on social media with heartfelt tribute
  • Jota was a key player for Liverpool and Portugal, winning multiple trophies
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Siraj pays tribute to late Diogo Jota with emotional No. 20 celebration at Lord's

Indian pacer Mohamed Siraj pays emotional tribute to Liverpool star Diogo Jota with a No. 20 celebration during the Lord's Test.

"Signed in 2020. Won the number 20, and made it his forever. Today, football has not lost. The whole world has lost. – Kuldeep Yadav"

London, July 11

Mohamed Siraj honoured the late Diogo Jota, after the Liverpool footballer passed away in a fatal car crash last Thursday, with his celebration during Day 2 of the third Test in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy being played at Lord's.

The Indian quick is known for using footballer's celebrations with his favourite being Cristiano Ronaldo's trademark 'Siuu' celebration. Siraj struck right after lunch and claimed the important wicket of wicket-keeper batter Jamie Smith, who was part of an 84-run stand with Brydon Carse, and displayed the number 20, the number which the Portuguese footballer donned on his jersey, before joining his hands in prayer.

Jota and his brother Andre Silva passed away in a car accident in the Spanish province of Zamora. According to the Spanish police, Jota’s car veered off the road while driving at a high speed, a tyre blowout caused the car to lose control and caught fire.

Suraj’s teammate Kuldeep Yadav, who is in the squad but yet to feature in the ongoing series, had also taken to social media to send his respects.

"Signed in 2020. Won the number 20, and made it his forever. Today, football has not lost. The whole world has lost. Your smile brought a shining light to the pitch you stepped on.

Whether it was Porto, Wolves or Liverpool. Hearts were made yours everywhere," posted Kuldeep on X.

Jota, 28, was a key figure for both Portugal and Liverpool. Since joining the club in 2020 from PL side Wolves, he helped them win major trophies including the Premier League, FA Cup, and two EFL Cups.

For Portugal, Jota earned 49 caps and netted 14 goals. He was part of the squad that lifted the UEFA Nations League title in 2019 and again in 2025, when Portugal defeated Spain in the final. The forward had celebrated that victory with his teammates just weeks ago.

Ealrier on Friday, Liverpool confirmed of their plans to commemorate Jota and Silva with a number of tributes at their friendly match against Preston North End.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

A
Ananya R
As a football fan, this tribute brought tears to my eyes. Siraj has shown great sportsmanship. Jota's legacy will live on through such heartfelt moments.
S
Sarah B
While the gesture is touching, I wonder if cricket celebrations should remain cricket-focused. That said, the sentiment behind it is undeniably beautiful.
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Vikram M
This is why I love sports! Siraj showing respect to a fellow athlete from another sport shows true sportsman spirit. Jota's tragic passing has united fans across games.
K
Kavya N
So heartbreaking to lose such a young talent. Siraj's tribute at Lord's, the home of cricket, makes it even more special. Football and cricket fans united in grief today.
M
Michael C
As a Liverpool supporter, seeing this tribute from an Indian cricketer means the world. The global sporting community coming together in moments like these is truly special.

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