Mohammed Siraj displayed intense energy and aggression as he bowled Travis Head. Head had been a challenging opponent for India, notably in the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup final and the ICC World Test Championship final. He had scored a remarkable 140 runs off 141 balls before his dismissal.
Siraj’s yorker shattered Head’s stumps. Siraj then approached Head, engaging in a visible exchange.
Head later commented on the interaction.
“I said, ‘Well bowled,’ but he thought otherwise when he pointed me to the sheds. Slightly disappointed with the way that transpired. It is what it is. If they want to react like that, and if that’s how they want to represent themselves, then so be it,” Head spoke to Fox Sports at the end of day two’s play.
Conversely, the crowd booed Siraj for his actions following Head’s dismissal.
Indian captain Rohit Sharma, along with Virat Kohli and other teammates, intervened to calm Siraj.
Head’s innings featured 17 fours and 4 sixes. The Adelaide crowd gave him a standing ovation as he left the field.
Talking about his knock, Head said, “Nice to get a few runs. Batting has been going nicely for the last few weeks and it was good to get some runs. I took my chances, they bowled well, it was a tough wicket and have put the guys in a good position.”
“I could if we did the right things, both sides came in thinking they could dominate, not saying we are dominating just yet but we are in a great position. With the quality of quicks they have, got to take chances, with the field up I was going to take my chances. Played really well in some moments.” he added.
“I don’t want to give too much air to him (Siraj). I feel like going out and playing the game I would like,” said Travis Head in the post-day conference.
“I would also like to stand up for myself. I would like to think that in our team we wouldn’t do that, and that’s how I like to play the game. I feel like my teammates are the same.”
Head possesses a strong record against India in Test matches. In 12 Tests, he has accumulated 955 runs at an average of 47.75. This includes two centuries and four half-centuries, with a top score of 163.
Considering all formats against India, Head has scored 1,555 runs in 29 matches at an average of 44.42. His record includes three centuries and six fifties, with a high score of 163.
“I feel you can play hard and fair, but once you’re out, you can’t do much about it. However, if there’s a reaction after that, then I’m going to stand up for myself,” he concluded.
Head’s recent performance against India has been particularly notable. In his last ten innings across all formats, he has amassed 728 runs in eight matches at an average of 72.80.
This impressive streak includes three centuries and two half-centuries. His highest score during this period is 163 not out, achieved in the World Test Championship final.
Furthermore, Head’s 137 runs in the 50-over World Cup final played a crucial role in Australia’s victory, highlighting his consistent performance against India. His contributions have consistently impacted India’s performance.
Siraj’s dismissal of Head undoubtedly served as a key moment in the match. However, the subsequent interaction between the two players added another layer of drama to the contest.
