Mohammed Siraj vs Travis Head: Ricky Ponting Weighs in on Verbal Clash
Ricky Ponting, a former Australian captain, addressed a feud. It was between India’s Mohammed Siraj and Australia’s Travis Head. It arose during the pink-ball Test at the Adelaide Oval. Ponting said that Siraj’s heated send-off to Head might upset officials. The ICC takes a firm stance against such on-field behavior.
The Incident: Siraj’s Fiery Reaction
The tension began after Travis Head struck Mohammed Siraj for a four and a six during a fiery over. After dismissing Head, Siraj gave a fiery send-off to the batter, pointing to the dressing room. The umpires noticed the exchange. The ICC then penalized both players.
Ponting, who witnessed the moment from the commentary box, shared his perspective.
“It was not a big deal and I saw it from the commentary box. I was worried about Mohammed Siraj as the umpires and referees don’t like bowlers giving these kinds of send-offs to batters by pointing in the direction of the dressing room,” Ricky Ponting told the ICC.
Misunderstanding Between Players
Travis Head, in his defense, claimed he had said “well bowled” to Siraj after his dismissal. However, Siraj alleged that the batter had used abusive language. This added to the tension. Despite the initial friction, both players resolved their issues by Day 3 of the match. This diffused the situation.
Ponting elaborated on the nature of the incident, explaining the emotions involved:
“The entire episode was accidental and the players involved resolved their differences. I know Travis Head said well bowled to Siraj, who was not happy after being hit for boundaries. Rohit Sharma would except his bowlers to react like that. When bowlers are hit by any batter, they don’t like it,” he added.
The Road Ahead
With the pink-ball Test behind them, the focus now shifts to Brisbane. India and Australia will face off in the third Test, starting December 14. Both teams will aim to maintain their composure as the series heats up.
