Mohammed Siraj Criticized for LBW Appeals: Former Australian Players Call for Strict Action
Former Australian players have criticized Indian bowler Mohammed Siraj. They disapprove of his conduct in the ongoing Test series. Both Michael Clarke and Mark Taylor criticized Siraj’s repeated LBW appeals. They said his celebrations, without consulting the umpire, disrespected the game. They have urged the International Cricket Council (ICC) to intervene and take action.
Michael Clarke on Siraj’s Conduct
Former Australian captain Michael Clarke strongly disliked Siraj’s celebratory appeals in the Perth and Adelaide Tests. Speaking on Big Sports Breakfast, Clarke stated:
“Siraj should be fined for making LBW appeals and not asking the umpires. The ball hits the ball, and he just runs towards the slips as if the batters are out. I am surprised that ICC hasn’t fined him because, during my time, you get fined every time you try to do it. I am more worried about that than the fight between Siraj and Head. You can appeal as many times as you want, but you can’t turn your back towards the umpires,” he said on Big Sports Breakfast. In the two-Test, he has taken 9 wickets, an average of 19.77.
Mark Taylor Urges Rohit Sharma or Virat Kohli to Step In
Former Aussie skipper Mark Taylor echoed Clarke. He urged Indian captain Rohit Sharma or ex-captain Virat Kohli to intervene. Taylor criticized Siraj for celebrating by running down the pitch before the umpire’s call.
“I want to see Virat Kohli or Rohit Sharma having a word with him because he is disrespecting the game and the umpires. He is a fine bowler, but you can’t behave like that. He almost reaches the wicket-keeper before looking at the umpire to see whether the batter has been declared out or not. That has to stop. The match referee might give him a game off, and we don’t want that,” Mark Taylor added.
Taylor warned that Siraj’s behavior could get him suspended by the match referee. That would be a big blow for India.
Series Level and Heading to Brisbane
The criticism of Mohammed Siraj has been harsh. It adds to the tension in the tied 1-1 Test series between India and Australia. The third Test is set for Brisbane on December 14. Both teams will aim to gain the upper hand in this fierce series.
Key Stats from the Series So Far:
- Mohammed Siraj’s Performance: 9 wickets at an average of 19.77 in two Tests.
- Series Status: India and Australia tied at 1-1.
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