“Travis Head lied in the press conference” Mohammed Siraj ends silence on ‘send-off’ row

A controversy unfolded on Day 2 of the second Test between India and Australia on Saturday, when a fiery exchange between Mohammed Siraj and Travis Head ignited tensions. Siraj dismissed Head, who had played a brilliant knock of 140 off 141 balls, with an aggressive celebration, seemingly directed at the Australian dressing room. Head, not backing down, responded strongly, and the two engaged in a heated verbal altercation.

Following the incident, Head told the press that he only said “well bowled” to Siraj. However, Siraj has now responded, claiming that Head’s comments were not truthful. In an interview with Harbhajan Singh on Star Sports ahead of Day 3, Siraj shared his version of events, explaining that while he relished the contest with Head, the Australian batter’s remarks post-match were misleading.

“I enjoyed bowling at him because it was a good battle. When you get hit by a good delivery, it gives you more energy. I celebrated after the wicket and you saw what was said on TV. I didn’t say anything on TV, but he lied in the press conference, saying he told me ‘well bowled.’ We know it wasn’t that,” Siraj stated.

“We don’t disrespect anyone. Cricket is a gentleman’s game, but the way he behaved was wrong,” he added.

Siraj’s aggressive celebration after dismissing Head had attracted criticism, including from former India captain Sunil Gavaskar, who also called out the pacer’s actions.