New Delhi: Indian team’s fast bowler Mohammad Siraj is once again in the news, but this time more than his performance, the reason is the behavior of Australian fans towards him. During the third Test match being played at Gabba in Brisbane, the Australian spectators booed Siraj fiercely. This incident has created a stir in the cricket world.
The matter increased due to the controversy of the second test
Earlier, in the second Test match played in Adelaide, there was an altercation between Siraj and Australian batsman Travis Head. In that match, Siraj had dismissed Head, after which the spectators targeted him. This trend continued in Brisbane also.
Strong criticism of Gavaskar
Former Indian cricket team captain Sunil Gavaskar has reacted sharply to this incident. Gavaskar criticized Australian fans and media through his column in ‘Sydney Morning Herald’. they wrote:
“Siraj is getting wisdom from the ‘saints’ of Australian cricket who were known for their great behaviour. The way Siraj dismissed Head, who had scored an excellent century, probably angered the Australian fans. But if an Australian fast bowler had given such a farewell to a batsman, the same people would have praised him.”
Gavaskar’s sarcastic question
Gavaskar further wrote sarcastically:
“The Australian media are saying that their team should go back to being the ‘mongrel’ it was before. But the question is, do these mongrels only growl or bark also?
Siraj’s mature response
Gavaskar also said that the way Siraj handled this situation is praiseworthy. they wrote:
“Siraj’s reaction was surprising, especially as the IPL has narrowed the gap between Australian players and Indian players. IPL is not only making players millionaires but is also reducing the feeling of enmity between the two teams.”
Question on sportsmanship of cricket
Due to continuous targeting of Siraj, questions have once again been raised on the spirit of the game. This comment of Gavaskar clearly shows that there is a need to maintain respect and sportsmanship among the players on the field.