The aftermath of the second Test between Australia and India in Adelaide has sparked a mix of controversies and tough selection calls. Australian batter Travis Head and Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj have been found guilty of breaching the ICC Code of Conduct during the match. The pair were disciplined following a hearing on Monday, a day after Australia secured a dominant 10-wicket win to level the five-match series 1-1.
Mohammed Siraj and Travis Head likely to face fines, not suspension
Despite the breach, reports suggest that both players may avoid suspensions due to their previously clean disciplinary records. Instead, they are likely to receive fines or official reprimands. The exact penalties, however, are yet to be announced by the ICC.
The incident has added an extra layer of intrigue to the heated series, with the third Test scheduled to begin in Brisbane on Saturday, December 14.
Also READ: AUS vs IND – AB de Villiers breaks silence on the Mohammed Siraj-Travis Head dispute
Ricky Ponting’s take on the change in Australia XI for Brisbane Test
Meanwhile, former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has weighed in on a critical selection debate ahead of the Brisbane Test. Ponting has called for Scott Boland to make way for Josh Hazlewood, should the latter be fit to play.
Boland delivered a stellar performance in Adelaide, claiming five wickets and playing a crucial role in Australia’s dominant victory. However, Ponting believes Hazlewood’s inclusion is a necessary move for the upcoming match.
“Even though Boland has bowled brilliantly, I would still prefer Hazlewood in the playing XI for Brisbane,” Ponting told 7Cricket.
Ponting acknowledged Boland’s exceptional form but reiterated that the pacer has been one of the “unluckiest cricketers” in Test history. Boland has often found himself sidelined, unable to secure a consistent spot in the team due to the presence of Australia’s star pacers – Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, and Pat Cummins.
As the series moves to Brisbane, Australia faces the challenge of finalizing their playing XI while maintaining the momentum from their Adelaide triumph. For India, the disciplinary action against Siraj could add pressure, though the team will focus on bouncing back after their disappointing loss.
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