IND vs AUS: Tensions rise between Indian team and Australian media once again after Jadeja’s controversy

The relationship between the Indian cricket team and Australian journalists remains strained as another press conference by the visiting side was conducted entirely in Hindi, intensifying the tension ahead of the Boxing Day Test.

This development follows the controversy surrounding Ravindra Jadeja’s earlier press conference, where Australian media accused the Indian all-rounder of refusing to answer questions in English. However, closer scrutiny revealed that Jadeja’s responses were in Hindi because the questions were posed by Indian journalists in their native language.

Background of the controversy

Australian outlet Channel 7 alleged that the press conference was tailored exclusively for Indian media, sidelining Australian journalists. However, sources clarified:

• Jadeja responded to questions in Hindi because they were asked in that language.
• He did not avoid or refuse to answer English-language questions.

The press conference, being unofficial, was primarily organized for Indian media, and Cricket Australia representatives were informed of this arrangement. The timing was also constrained by the team’s travel schedule, explaining Jadeja’s early departure.

Recent developments

The latest press conference, also conducted in Hindi, has been perceived by some as a continuation of “mind games” by the Indian team ahead of the high-stakes Boxing Day Test. The lack of English responses has further frustrated sections of the Australian media, escalating tensions during India’s tour Down Under.

Impact on India-Australia relations

The ongoing friction highlights the cultural and logistical challenges during international tours. While the Indian team management has adhered to its planned media interactions, the Australian media’s portrayal of these incidents suggests growing unease as the two cricketing giants gear up for a blockbuster Test.

Efforts to bridge this gap and foster better communication could help alleviate misunderstandings in the future.