Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has described as “pointless” the fiery send-off Mohammed Siraj gave to Australian batter Travis Head after the pacer dismissed him for 140 on Day 2 of the second Test on the Adelaide Oval. Gavaskar, talking on Star Sports, expressed his disapproval of Siraj’s actions, emphasising the context of Head’s innings. The legendary batter highlighted that Head had performed a powerful knock, turning into an area hero along with his eighth Test century and second towards India, and Siraj’s over-the-top celebration was unwarranted.
“Unnecessary, in case you ask me. The man’s bought 140, he hasn’t bought out for one or two. You do not give a send-off to somebody who’s batted brilliantly and gained the group over. Instead of turning into a hero for dismissing him, Siraj has turn out to be the villain,” stated Gavaskar. He recommended that Siraj’s actions value him a chance to win the respect of the native crowd.
“If Siraj had merely applauded Head after that dismissal, he would have been a hero for everybody within the stadium. Instead, he bought the stick from the group, and understandably so.”
Former Australia opener Matthew Hayden additionally weighed in, attributing Siraj’s actions to feelings operating excessive within the warmth of the competition. While Hayden defended Siraj’s depth as a bowler, he identified the necessity for grace in such conditions.
“It was in all probability just a bit little bit of emotion and keenness from Siraj, who bowled his coronary heart out. But once you’re dealing with an area hero who’s simply made 140, it’s worthwhile to present some humility,” Hayden remarked.
Hayden praised Head’s innings, calling it a masterclass of managed aggression, and recommended Siraj missed a chance to showcase sportsmanship on a giant stage.
Travis Head’s innings was the spine of Australia’s first innings complete of 337. The left-hander smashed 17 fours and 4 sixes in his 140 off 141 balls, entertaining the Adelaide crowd with a panoramic show of counterattacking cricket.
While the main focus remained on the Siraj-Head incident, the Indian pacer delivered a formidable efficiency with figures of 4-98. His fiery spell rattled Australia’s decrease order, and he was well-supported by Jasprit Bumrah, who returned figures of 4-61.
Topics talked about on this article
