2nd Test: Siraj Accuses Head of Misrepresentation in Press Conference
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Adelaide, Dec 8 (NationPress) India fast-bowler Mohammed Siraj has asserted that Australia's left-handed batter Travis Head misrepresented their exchange by claiming he only said well-bowled during day two of the ongoing Adelaide Test.
On the fourth ball of the 82nd over, Siraj dismissed Head with a stunning in-swinging yorker, followed by a heated send-off and a bold gesture towards the stands. Head responded to Siraj as he left the field, receiving a roaring ovation from the home crowd.
After this incident, the Adelaide crowd expressed their discontent with continuous boos every time Siraj fielded in the deep or bowled, reflecting their displeasure towards his actions with Head. After the conclusion of day two’s play, Head voiced his dissatisfaction to Fox Sports about the situation, suggesting that if this is how the visitors wish to represent themselves, then that is their choice.
Now, speaking with former India spinner Harbhajan Singh ahead of day three for Star Sports, Siraj shared his perspective. “It was an excellent contest (with Head), and he played remarkably well. When you concede a six on a good delivery, it ignites a different fire within you.
“When I bowled him out, I merely celebrated, and he verbally abused me, which was evident on television. I only celebrated initially; I didn’t say anything to him. What he stated in the press conference was incorrect; it is a lie that he only said well-bowled to me.
“It’s clear for everyone to see that’s not what he said. We hold respect for all players; it’s not as if we disrespect others. I respect everyone because cricket is a gentleman’s game, but his actions were not right. I found it very disappointing,” Siraj expressed.
Following day two’s play, India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel came to Siraj’s defense regarding his altercation with Head, believing that both players would maintain good relations in the future. “Siraj is the kind of player who gives 100 percent. That’s the spirit he brings to the bowling unit. He’ll always push himself throughout the day.
“In a significant series like this, with the game potentially at a turning point, moments like these are inevitable. You have two cricketers who play with intensity and toughness. However, I’m confident that after the match, they’ll be the best of friends,” Morkel stated.
