Both players have been handed a demerit point, while the Indian pacer has also been fined 20% of his match fee.
The controversy began when Mohammed Siraj bowled Travis Head immediately after conceding a six, celebrating wildly and directing Head towards the dressing room with a pointed gesture. This led to an exchange of words between the two players. The ICC has penalized both cricketers for their behavior during the Adelaide Test.
In a statement on Monday, the ICC confirmed that both Head and Siraj had been given a demerit point for breaching the Code of Conduct. Additionally, Siraj was fined 20% of his match fee.
The players admitted their wrongdoing and accepted the sanction handed by match referee Ranjan Madugalle, avoiding the need for a formal hearing.
The incident occurred during the 82nd over of Australia’s first innings. After smashing Siraj for a six to reach 140 runs, Head was bowled on the next delivery, a low full toss that he failed to connect with. He departed after scoring 140 off 141 balls.
Siraj erupted in celebration after dismissing Head, giving him a ‘send-off.’ Head, in response, appeared to say something back. While their exchange wasn’t picked up by the stump mic, their behavior caught the attention of the umpires.
Australia won the day-night Test by 10 wickets, leveling the series. The next Test is set to take place in Brisbane, starting this Saturday.
