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The fourth proof of Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 ended up with Australia to beat India and taking a crucial 2-1 lead from the first leg with a test remaining. While many moments captured the attention of fans from the Christmas Day Test at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), a strange incident has sparked a firestorm of controversy. All Australian Chief Travis faced heat after his strange celebration after he dismissed India’s wicket-keeper batsman Rishabh pants.
Travis Head’s celebration sparks outrage
The incident unfolded on the last day of the match when Head, was brought into the attack by the Australian captain Pat Cumminsmanaged to dismiss the well-placed Pant. The Indian star, trying to pull a shot off a short delivery, mistimed it, sending a catch to Mitchell Marsh at mid deep port. This dismissal was pivotal as it led to a collapse in India’s batting line-up, leading to an Australian victory by 184 runs and securing a 2–1 lead in the series.
However, it was Head’s celebration after the wicket that attracted significant attention and criticism. Head made a gesture in which he made a hole with his left hand and repeatedly inserted his right index finger into it, a move that was quickly labeled “vulgar” or “obscene” by many on social media and the world of cricket
Also READ: AUS vs IND: This is the reason for Travis Head’s strange celebration after dismissing Rishabh Pant on Day 5 of the MCG Test
Navjot Singh Sidhu asks ICC to take action against Head
Former Indian cricketer and popular broadcaster Navjot Singh Sidhu also expressed his strong disapproval with the act of Cap. Sidhu, who has always been known for his outspoken nature, especially on issues related to the integrity of cricket, demanded that the International Cricket Council (ICC) take action. His call for a review into the matter was echoed by fans and former cricketers alike, many of whom felt that while cricket allowed for exuberant celebrations, it should not cross into disrespect or the vulgarity
Sidhu’s post on social media described the act as the “worst possible example” when children, women and people of all ages are watching the match. Sidhu also called for “strict punishment” to deter such conduct in the future, stressing the need to maintain the spirit of cricket.
“Travis Head’s unsavory behavior during the course of the Melbourne Test is not good for the gentleman’s game… he sets the worst possible example when there are children, women, young and old watching the game…. this conduct caustic insulted not an individual but a nation of 1.5 billion Indians… He must be severely punished which would serve as a deterrent to future generations so that no one dares to follow his example! !!” wrote Sidhu on X (formerly Twitter).
The obnoxious behavior of Travis’ boss during the course of the Melbourne test is not good for the gentleman’s game…… it sets the worst possible example when there are children, women, young and old watching the game……. this caustic behavior did not insult an individual but a…
— Navjot Singh Sidhu (@sherryontopp) December 30, 2024
Australian captain Pat Cummins explains Head’s controversial gesture
The gesture, although intended as a light inside joke according to Australian captain Cummins, was explained as the boss mimicking putting his hot finger in a cup of ice, a reference to an earlier celebration after taking a wicket. Despite Cummins’ attempt to diffuse the situation during the post-game press conference, the celebration had already sparked a wide-ranging debate about sportsmanship, cultural sensitivity and the limits of on-field celebrations.
