Adelaide: India captain Rohit Sharma on Sunday came out in strong support of fast bowler Mohammed Siraj’s aggressive on-field persona, stating that having a word or two with the opposition is not a bad thing and that Siraj thrives on such interactions.
"Having a word or two with the opposition is not a bad thing. He likes it, and it gets him going," Rohit said, speaking to the media. The captain added that Siraj's aggressive approach to the game has proven to be a successful strategy, as the fast bowler often thrives in such battles.
Rohit acknowledged that while aggression is an important part of Siraj's game, there is a fine line to ensure it does not cross into disrespecting the sport. "Obviously, there's a fine line—we don’t want to cross anything that disrespects the game. But having a word or two here and there doesn’t make a huge difference," he explained.
The captain further emphasised the responsibility he holds in ensuring the team stays within the boundaries of respect and sportsmanship. "As captain, it's my responsibility to ensure we don’t cross that line," Rohit said.
Siraj’s aggressive send-off to Australia’s Travis Head on Day 2 of the ongoing match sparked controversy after the Australian batter made an unsavory remark following his dismissal for 140 runs. The exchange led to a heated moment between the two, and the Adelaide spectators turned hostile, booing Siraj while applauding Head’s match-winning century.
Responding to a query about external distractions, Rohit stated that the Indian team is well accustomed to such dynamics, and Siraj, in particular, knows how to focus on his role.
"Siraj knows what he needs to do for the team. His job is to take wickets, and he will do everything required to achieve that. External factors don’t matter to him," he concluded.
Siraj was also met with boos from the crowd as he came in to bat for the second time in the match.
After the fiery exchange between Siraj and Head on Day 2, the two players offered differing accounts of the incident, with both standing by their versions of the events.
Speaking to broadcasters following the day's play, Head explained that his words to Siraj were intended as a compliment. "I told him he bowled well, but it seems Siraj misinterpreted it," Head said.
He admitted feeling a bit disappointed with how the situation unfolded, adding, "If the Indian team wants to act in such a fashion, then so be it."
However, Siraj hit back at Head’s version, claiming that the Australia batsman account was inaccurate. The Indian pacer insisted that it was Head’s abusive comments, rather than any compliments, that triggered his aggressive send-off. "Head was the one who abused me, and that’s what led to my reaction," Siraj said.
He also emphasised that India holds respect for all players and that his celebration had not been excessive prior to the exchange.
With both players standing firm, the controversy added a new layer of intensity to the ongoing series, with Siraj’s fiery aggression continuing to play a central role in India’s strategy.
