Travis Head Clarifies Mohammed Siraj Altercation, Says Pacer Misinterpreted Compliment

Australia’s Travis Head has addressed his fiery exchange with India pacer Mohammed Siraj during the second day of the pink-ball Test on December 7. Head, who delivered a stellar performance with a blazing 140 off 141 balls, revealed that his compliment to Siraj was misunderstood, leading to the on-field altercation.

Head, scoring his third Test century in Adelaide, was eventually dismissed by Siraj, who gave him an animated send-off. In response, Head lashed out at the bowler as he walked back to the pavilion. Speaking to the broadcasters post-match, Head explained that he had praised Siraj’s bowling, but the Indian pacer seemingly misinterpreted the remark.

“I said ‘well bowled,’ but he thought otherwise. When he pointed me to the shed, he got a little bite back from me. Slightly disappointed with how it transpired. It is what it is. If they want to act like that and that’s how they’re going to represent themselves, then so be it,” Head remarked.

The incident led to boos from the Adelaide crowd directed at Siraj. Despite the controversy, Head had a touching moment off the field, dedicating his century to his newborn son. “We have a newborn boy a couple of weeks ago. I would have got some stick from my wife if I didn’t do that when Harrison was born,” he joked.

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Reflecting on his innings, Head acknowledged that he took risks and made the most of his opportunities. “I took my chances here and there. Sometimes it was tough to get a bat on. At certain stages, they were bowling really well. Nice to take my luck and put the guys in a good position,” he said.

At stumps on Day 2, Australia held a 29-run lead, with India struggling in their second innings at five wickets down, leaving the hosts in a commanding position.