2nd Test: Sunil Gavaskar Critiques Mohammed Siraj's Intense Send-off to Travis Head as 'Unwarranted'
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Adelaide, Dec 7 (NationPress) Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar has characterized the fiery send-off that Mohammed Siraj offered to Australian batter Travis Head as 'unwarranted' following the pacer's dismissal of Head for 140 on Day 2 of the second Test at the Adelaide Oval.
While speaking on Star Sports, Gavaskar voiced his disapproval of Siraj’s actions, stressing the significance of Head's innings. The iconic batter pointed out that Head had delivered an exceptional performance, achieving his eighth Test century and second against India, and deemed Siraj’s exuberant celebration as excessive.
“Unwarranted, if you ask me. The man’s got 140, he hasn’t been dismissed for one or two. You don’t give a send-off to someone who’s batted magnificently and captivated the crowd. Rather than emerging as the hero for taking his wicket, Siraj has turned into the villain,” stated Gavaskar. He indicated that Siraj’s conduct cost him a chance to earn the admiration of the local audience.
“If Siraj had merely applauded Head after that dismissal, he would have been celebrated by everyone in the stadium. Instead, he received backlash from the crowd, and rightly so.”
Former Australian opener Matthew Hayden also commented, attributing Siraj’s behavior to the heightened emotions during the match. Although Hayden defended Siraj’s fervor as a bowler, he emphasized the importance of showing grace in such circumstances.
“It was perhaps just a moment of emotion and passion from Siraj, who bowled exceptionally well. But when you’re up against a local hero who has just scored 140, you need to exhibit some humility,” Hayden observed.
Hayden lauded Head’s performance, referring to it as a masterclass in controlled aggression, and noted that Siraj missed a pivotal chance to demonstrate sportsmanship on a significant platform.
Travis Head’s innings formed the foundation of Australia’s first innings total of 337. The left-handed batsman hit 17 fours and four sixes in his 140 off 141 balls, thrilling the Adelaide crowd with a stunning display of counterattacking cricket.
While attention remained on the incident between Siraj and Head, the Indian pacer showcased an impressive performance, registering figures of 4-98. His fiery bowling rattled Australia’s lower order, and he received solid support from Jasprit Bumrah, who recorded figures of 4-61.
