"I got worried for Siraj.." Ricky Ponting has his say on Mohammed Siraj-Travis Head altercation

Mohammed Siraj took four wickets in the second BGT 2024-25 test in Adelaide.

The second test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 at the Adelaide Oval made headlines for reasons beyond cricketing brilliance. The game saw a heated exchange between Mohammed Siraj and Travis Head, which further resulted in sanctions for both players.

The incident occurred during the 82nd over of Australia’s first innings when Siraj bowled a yorker to dismiss Head for 140 runs. Interestingly, Head had dispatched Siraj for a massive six over the deep square leg on the previous ball. Unhappy with the result earlier, Mohammed Siraj reacted animatedly after the dismissal, resulting in a verbal exchange with the southpaw.

The Indian fast bowler faced loud boos from the Adelaide Oval crowd, who were backing the local hero following the incident. Speaking after the end of day’s play, Head claimed that he said “well bowled” to Siraj before his fiery response. On the other hand, Siraj claimed that Head never said anything like that.

Ricky Ponting on Siraj-Head altercation

Following the incident, former Australian captain Ricky Ponting offered a measured perspective on the incident.

“Looking back at it now, I think it was accidental the way that whole thing played out, I don’t think there was any malice meant at the start,” said Ricky Ponting speaking on the ICC Review.

However, Ponting admitted that he was concerned when Siraj’s send-off pointed toward the dressing room. “As soon as I saw it, I got worried for Siraj. Umpires and referees don’t like send-offs, and I knew it could become an issue.”

The Australian legend praised the duo for clearing out the misunderstanding after the game.

Ricky concluded “It was great to see them actually chatting. When Siraj came out to bat and Travis was at short leg, they were actually clarifying what had happened out there. They were talking amongst themselves as to what had actually happened.“

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