Mohammed Siraj once more proved to be Travis Head’s nemesis in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25, dismissing the Australian batter for the second time in the series. The decisive moment unfolded during Australia’s second innings on Day 5 of the third Test at The Gabba on Wednesday, December 18.
Fans revel in Mohammad Siraj’s signature celebration to Travis Head
Siraj, in his usual fiery rhythm, delivered a sharp ball on the fourth delivery of the 15th over. Head, attempting to dominate the bowler, tried to play across the line and lift the ball over mid-wicket. However, he misjudged the angle, resulting in a top edge that soared high. Rishabh Pant positioned himself perfectly to complete the catch, sending Head back for a mere 17 runs.
The dismissal triggered a wave of celebration among Indian supporters present at The Gabba. Amid the cheering, one young fan caught attention with his enthusiastic replication of Siraj’s iconic celebration from Perth Test. The gesture, popularized during the Adelaide Test earlier in the series, saw Siraj signaling Head to return to the pavilion after dismissing him in dramatic fashion. While the fierce send-off in Adelaide cost Siraj 20% of his match fees due to an ICC fine, the two players seemed to have buried the hatchet as they shared a warm embrace at the conclusion of the second Test.
Here’s the video:
We feel you kid, we feel you. #travishead pic.twitter.com/aFiCWvDaxK
— Prayag (@theprayagtiwari) December 18, 2024
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India’s bowlers dominate Day 5 of Gabba Test against Australia
Australia began the final day with the intent to score rapidly, aiming to set a challenging target for the visitors and push for a result. However, their plans were thwarted by the relentless Indian bowling attack. Siraj struck crucial blows early, removing both Travis Head and Steve Smith, while Jasprit Bumrah spearheaded the attack with a stunning three-wicket haul. Akash Deep contributed with two wickets, showcasing his potential as a key support bowler. Australia’s aggressive approach led to a rapid loss of wickets, and they declared their innings at 89/7, setting India a target of 275 runs with a maximum of 54 overs remaining in the day.
Rain interrupts India’s chase: A series in the balance
India’s chase began under cloudy skies, and openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill cautiously guided the team to 8/0 in just 2.1 overs. Nevertheless, the weather soon took center stage as rain interrupted proceedings. Hopes of a resumption dwindled as the rain persisted, and the umpires eventually called off the match. The game ended in a draw, leaving the series delicately poised. With the first three Tests resulting in a 1-1 scoreline, the five-match BGT remains wide open. Both teams now turn their focus to the remaining two Tests, which will not only decide the series winner but also have significant implications for their positions in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 standings.
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