The Day-Night Test match of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 at the Adelaide Oval has been marred by a fiery on-field clash between Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj and Australian batter Travis Head, and it has now become one of the most talked-about moments of the game.
The much-debatable incident took place after Head’s brilliant 140-run knock was ended by Siraj, with both players engaged in a war of words after the Indian pacer cleaned bowled the Australian batter.
Simon Katich slams Mohammed Siraj’s on-field behavior in the Adelaide Test
Reacting to the saga, the former Australian cricketer Simon Katich labeled Siraj’s behavior as a “brain fade” moment. The former Australian cricketer has stressed that there was absolutely no need for the aggressive exchange, especially considering the remarkable innings Travis Head had just played.
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Katich stressed that Head’s knock was match-winning and deserved to end with respect, not a fiery exchange, so he feels bad for him. He further mentioned that Mohammed Siraj would regret his behavior when he reflected on the incident later.
However, Katich felt that Siraj’s behavior was a spur-of-the-moment reaction and that the pressure of the situation got the better of him. He also pointed out Siraj’s embarrassment after he dismissed Mitchell Starc, and it seemed like the Indian bowler had come to terms with his rash actions.
It’s a shame that Siraj had a bit of a brain fade: Simon Katich
Simon Katich said on SEN 1170 Breakfast: “It’s a shame that Siraj had a bit of a brain fade… there’s no need for that in the game. He would regret that Siraj…it was all spur of the moment and when he got Mitchell Starc out not long after that he was pretty sheepish. It all happens in a split second and it’s hard to control emotions sometimes when you’re upset with what’s just unfolded.”
But what irked Katich more was the way Siraj didn’t acknowledge Head’s brilliant innings. The Aussie great believes that this saga could have long-term consequences on the ongoing five-match Test series, which is already known for its intense rivalry between the two powerhouses of the game—India and Australia.
Read Also: Mohammed Siraj, Travis Head suspended? ICC slaps duo with harsh punishments after Adelaide fight
Travis Head’s innings didn’t deserve to finish that way: Simon Katich
Katich signed off by saying, “His innings didn’t deserve to finish that way. I think Travis Head reacted to the gesture and you can’t blame him for that, he was pretty upset with what was being directed his way. As soon as Travis Head got out, he basically played a match-winning knock, it should’ve been the opposite.
He should’ve gone over to him and pat him on the back and said ‘well played’. Hopefully, it doesn’t ignite the series but I dare say given the history of India v Australia in recent times… it’s going to get heated in the next few tests because the series is on the line.”
Notably, the third Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 between India and Australia will be played at The Gabba in Brisbane from December 14. The MCG will stage the Boxing Day Test from December 26.