IND vs AUS: Sunil Gavaskar Lashes Out At Mohammed Siraj for ‘Unnecessary’ Send-off to Travis Head

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Read Original Content: IND vs AUS: Sunil Gavaskar Lashes Out At Mohammed Siraj for ‘Unnecessary’ Send-off to Travis Head

Former Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has expressed his disappointment with Mohammed Siraj’s aggressive gesture towards Travis Head during the second Test in Adelaide. Head, who played a brilliant knock of 140 runs, was dismissed by Siraj with a stunning yorker. However, Siraj’s animated send-off, which included gesturing at Head to walk back, did not sit well with the Indian batting legend.

Gavaskar, speaking during the tea-time show on Star Sports, called Siraj’s behavior unnecessary, especially considering the quality of Head’s innings. He said:

“The man’s got 140. He hasn’t got four or five. You’re giving him a send-off? That’s totally uncalled for.”

The incident also triggered a reaction from Head, leading to an exchange between the two players. Siraj faced boos from the Adelaide crowd, with over 50,000 fans in attendance, for his behavior.

Watch the video here:

Sunil Gavaskar and Ricky Ponting Weigh In

Travis Head’s innings was a dominant display of counter-attacking cricket. His 140-run knock, which included 17 fours and 4 sixes, gave Australia a 157-run first-innings lead. Siraj, however, missed a chance to dismiss him earlier when he dropped a difficult catch off Ravichandran Ashwin’s bowling.

Gavaskar highlighted how Siraj could have won the crowd’s respect by appreciating Head’s performance instead of showing aggression.

“Travis Head is a local hero. If Siraj had applauded him for his knock, he would’ve been a hero for the crowd. Instead, he’s become the villain,” he remarked.

Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting also commented on the incident during Channel Seven’s coverage. He believed Siraj’s frustration stemmed from being hit for a six by Head just before the dismissal. Ponting said:

“It was almost like Siraj lost it halfway down. That’s what you call the old-fashioned send-off. Umpires and referees don’t take kindly to such actions.”

The exchange has sparked a debate on sportsmanship, with Gavaskar and Ponting urging players to maintain composure on the field. Siraj’s actions have drawn criticism, with many suggesting that acknowledging Head’s incredible innings would have been the better response.

Read Original Content: IND vs AUS: Sunil Gavaskar Lashes Out At Mohammed Siraj for ‘Unnecessary’ Send-off to Travis Head

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