Kaif criticizes Mohammed Siraj's on-field behavior during Adelaide Test
What's the story
Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif has slammed pacer Mohammed Siraj for his behavior during the day-night Test at the Adelaide Oval. Kaif objected to two particular incidents involving Australian cricketers Travis Head and Marnus Labuschagne. The first incident happened when Siraj threw the ball at Labuschagne in the first innings, after the latter had backed away because of some movement near the sightscreen.
Incident details
Kaif disapproves Siraj's actions toward Labuschagne
The incident with Labuschagne occurred in the 25th over of Australia's first innings on Day 1. A visibly upset Siraj threw the ball toward the stumps after Labuschagne backed away at the last moment as a fan moved beer glasses around the sightscreen area. Kaif criticized this behavior of Siraj, saying it wasn't an example a role model should set for future generations.
Second incident
Kaif criticizes Siraj's send-off to Head
The other incident which earned Kaif's ire was Siraj's needless send-off to Travis Head in the second innings, after the former had scored a match-winning 140. "When Travis Head smashed 140, hit you to every nook and corner of the ground, flicked you for a six... After that, Siraj bowled him. I understand the celebration, but I didn't like the send-off," Kaif said.
Penalties imposed
ICC penalizes Siraj and Head for code of conduct breach
After the ugly incident involving Siraj and Head, both players were punished by the International Cricket Council (ICC). They were each fined and awarded one demerit point after being found guilty of breaching the code of conduct. This action was taken after the two engaged in a heated exchange during the second innings of the day-night pink-ball Test at Adelaide Oval.
Missed opportunity
Kaif comments on missed catch and crowd reaction
Kaif also highlighted a missed opportunity by Siraj to dismiss Head when he was batting on 79. The pacer dropped a difficult chance off Ashwin's bowling, which could have possibly changed the game. On the Australian spectators booing Siraj, Kaif said there was nothing wrong with it as Head was a local boy and their support for their players is expected.