Sun Dec 08 13:42:57 UTC 2024: ## Siraj Denies Head’s Claim of Compliment After Adelaide Test Heated Exchange
**Adelaide, Australia:** Indian fast bowler Mohammed Siraj has vehemently denied claims by Australian batsman Travis Head that Head complimented Siraj’s bowling after a heated exchange during the Adelaide Test. The incident occurred after Siraj dismissed Head, who had earlier scored a magnificent 140 runs off 141 balls, contributing significantly to Australia’s first-innings lead of 157 runs.
Head had stated that he told Siraj, “Good bowling,” following his dismissal. However, Siraj, speaking to Harbhajan Singh on Star Sports, refuted this, stating that Head’s comment was a lie. He described the exchange as a “good contest,” acknowledging Head’s impressive innings but emphasizing Head’s disrespectful behavior after being dismissed. Siraj cited Head’s actions—including a verbal response and apparent abuse—as justification for his own celebratory reaction. The incident was witnessed by a record crowd of over 50,000 at Adelaide Oval, many of whom reportedly booed Siraj after the dismissal.
The dispute arose after Siraj dropped Head’s catch earlier in the innings, only for Head to subsequently hit a six off the same bowler. Siraj’s subsequent celebration, which included a gesture indicating Head should leave the field, sparked the controversy. Siraj maintained he only celebrated initially and that Head’s subsequent words and actions were uncalled for. He asserted that he respects all cricketers, but Head’s post-dismissal behavior was inappropriate.
Former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh, who also had a contentious history with Australian players, supported Siraj, corroborating that Head would not have made such a compliment.
The incident adds another chapter to the often fiery encounters between India and Australia in cricket. The video footage of the exchange is being widely circulated and analyzed to determine the exact nature of the conversation.
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