December 8, 2024: Sunil Gavaskar has criticized Mohammed Siraj for his animated send-off after dismissing Travis Head during the second Test match between India and Australia in Adelaide. Head, who played a stunning knock of 140 runs (141 balls), was dismissed by a brilliant yorker from Siraj. Following the dismissal, Siraj celebrated in a fiery manner, gesturing toward the Australian dressing room, which led to a heated exchange between the two players. This altercation was followed by boos from the 50,000-plus crowd at the Adelaide Oval, and the incident quickly became a talking point.
Gavaskar, speaking on Star Sports during the tea-time show, said that Siraj’s gesture was “unnecessary”, particularly given the context of the game. “Unnecessary, if you ask me, the man’s got 140, he hasn’t got four or five or something. He got 140, you’re giving him a send-off, that’s totally uncalled for,” Gavaskar remarked, emphasizing that Head’s monumental contribution to the match made the send-off seem excessive.
Travis Head had been a standout performer for Australia, playing an aggressive and counter-attacking innings that helped Australia gain a substantial first-innings lead. His knock was filled with 17 fours and 4 sixes, and it was instrumental in Australia posting a total of 337, leading by 157 runs after India had managed only 180 in their first innings. Siraj had earlier dropped a tough catch when Head was on 76, which added to the drama surrounding the pacer’s performance.
Gavaskar also highlighted the impact of Siraj’s actions on his relationship with the crowd, especially given Head’s popularity as a local hero. “No wonder he’s getting the stick from the crowd. Travis Head is a local hero and after scoring 100, if he had even just applauded, Siraj would have been a hero for the entire crowd. Instead, by giving him a send-off, he’s become the villain,” Gavaskar added.
Ricky Ponting, former Australian captain, also weighed in on the incident, suggesting that Siraj’s frustration might have stemmed from being hit for a six by Head just before dismissing him. “Siraj wasn’t happy to be clipped over deep backward square for six,” Ponting observed. “Have a look at Travis Head’s reaction … it was almost like he [Siraj] lost it halfway down. He might have a bit to answer for there as well. That’s what you call the old-fashioned send-off. Umpires and referees don’t see kindly to stuff like that,” he added, implying that Siraj’s reaction was more out of frustration than calculated celebration.
The incident has sparked a significant amount of discussion, with Siraj’s actions being criticized for crossing a line in terms of sportsmanship. However, despite the tense moment, the relationship between both teams remains competitive but respectful, with Gavaskar pointing out that there is a way to play hard but fair.
