Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj has been fined 20% of his match fee, while Australian batter Travis Head has been handed one demerit point by the ICC following their on-field spat during the Adelaide Test. Both players were found guilty of violating the ICC Code of Conduct.
Details of the Incident
The altercation occurred on the second day of the Test during the 82nd over. Travis Head, batting on 140, hit Siraj for a six. On the very next delivery, Siraj bowled him out. After his dismissal, Head exchanged words with Siraj, who responded with a send-off gesture. The heated exchange continued as Head walked back to the pavilion.
Later, Siraj faced booing from the Australian crowd during the following over. Former Australian cricketer Mark Taylor also criticized Siraj for his aggressive behaviour on the field.
ICC’s Decision
- Siraj’s Violation: He was found guilty under Article 2.5 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which relates to using actions or gestures that could provoke an aggressive reaction from a dismissed batter.
- Head’s Violation: He was penalized under Article 2.13 for conduct that could bring the game into disrepute.
This was the first offense for both players in the last 24 months, so neither faced suspension.
Conflicting Statements from Siraj and Head
- Siraj’s Version
Speaking to Star Sports Hindi before the third day’s play, Siraj said:“After I bowled him out, I celebrated, and he abused me—you could see that on TV. I didn’t say anything to him initially; I only celebrated.”Siraj also accused Head of lying during the post-match press conference, adding:“What he said about just saying ‘well bowled’ is not true. Everyone saw it.” - Head’s Version
After the second day’s play, Head defended himself in the press conference:“I told Siraj ‘well bowled,’ but he overreacted unnecessarily.”
Match Outcome
The Adelaide Test was won by Australia by 10 wickets, leveling the series 1-1. The next match is scheduled to begin on December 14 at Brisbane’s Gabba.