Lagatar24 Desk
Adelaide: Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj has spoken out about the heated exchange with Australian batter Travis Head that unfolded during Day 2 of the second Test at the Adelaide Oval. The controversy began after Siraj bowled Head with a stunning delivery, following which the two were seen engaging in a verbal altercation.
In a viral video, Siraj appeared to celebrate the wicket emphatically, pointing towards the dressing room, which prompted a reaction from Head. Speaking to former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh, Siraj revealed that the incident began with Head abusing him after the dismissal.
“I was enjoying bowling to him. He was batting well, and it was a good battle. When he hit me for a six on a good ball, it hurt, but it motivated me. After bowling him out, I celebrated, but then he abused me. You can see it on TV. I didn’t say anything to him initially,” Siraj explained.
He further criticized Head’s comments during the post-day press conference, where the Australian batter claimed to have complimented Siraj on the delivery. “In the press conference, he lied. He said ‘well-bowled,’ but that’s not true. Cricket is a gentleman’s game, and I respect everyone. What Travis Head did was wrong, and I didn’t feel good about it,” Siraj added.
Head Acknowledges Overreaction
During the post-day press conference, Head addressed the incident, suggesting that his reaction might have gone “a little too far.”
“I jokingly said ‘well bowled,’ and he pointed me to the sheds. I had my reaction as well. I feel like my reaction could’ve been better, but I’m also going to stand up for myself,” Head stated, adding that such exchanges are not the way he likes to play the game.
Head admitted he was disappointed with his own response and reiterated that such behavior would be called out within his team.
Siraj’s Impact on the Game
Siraj, who claimed four wickets in the first innings, played a crucial role in keeping India in the game. However, with India trailing significantly, Siraj’s performance with both the ball and bat will be critical as the team battles an uphill task against Australia on Day 3 of the pink-ball Test.
