BGT 2024-25: Gavaskar slams Australian double standards after Siraj-Head altercation
Xtra Time Web Desk: Sunil Gavaskar has strongly criticized Australian cricketers and fans for targeting Mohammed Siraj following his heated exchange with Travis Head during the Adelaide Test. Siraj dismissed Head on Day 2, delivering a spirited send-off that drew boos from the Adelaide crowd whenever he bowled or batted. The jeers continued into the Brisbane Test, underscoring the hostility directed at the Indian pacer.
In his column for the Sydney Morning Herald, Gavaskar called out the double standards of the Australian public, pointing out that they would have cheered if one of their players had done the same.
Read More: BGT 2024-25: Travis Head’s three centuries in the last four Tests against India, Gavaskar slams Rohit
"Siraj is getting the stick from all the 'saints' in Australian cricket who, of course, were known for their impeccable behavior on the field. It may have incensed fans because Siraj’s fiery send-off targeted Head, the local hero who scored a brilliant century," Gavaskar wrote. "Yet, these same people would applaud an Aussie bowler giving a similar send-off to an English batter during the Ashes. If some in the media want the Aussies to return to being 'mongrels,' then do mongrels just purr, or do they bark too?"
Both Siraj and Head received ICC demerit points, with Siraj also fined 20% of his match fees.
Read More: BGT 2024-25: Mohammed Siraj’s playful bail switch riles up Marnus Labuschagne at the Gabba
Gavaskar surprised by Siraj’s outburst
Gavaskar admitted that Siraj’s reaction was unexpected, particularly given how the Indian Premier League (IPL) has reduced animosity between international players.
"Siraj’s outburst was surprising because the IPL, apart from making Aussie cricketers and coaches millionaires, has significantly softened tensions that used to define cricket rivalries," Gavaskar observed.
