The fourth Test of Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 ended with Australia beating India and taking a crucial 2-1 lead in the leg with one Test left. While many moments captured fans attention from the Boxing Day Test at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), a bizarre incident has ignited a firestorm of controversy. Australian all-rounder Travis Head was faced the heat following his weird celebration after he dismissed India’s wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant.
Travis Head’s celebration sparks outrage
The incident unfolded on the final day of the game when Head, brought into the attack by Australian captain Pat Cummins, managed to dismiss the well-set Pant. The Indian star, attempting a pull shot off a short delivery, mistimed it, sending a catch to Mitchell Marsh at deep mid-wicket. This dismissal was pivotal, as it sparked a collapse in India’s batting lineup, 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 drew significant attention and criticism. Head performed a gesture where he made a hole with his left hand and repeatedly inserted his right index finger into it, a move that was quick to be labeled as ‘vulgar’ or ‘obscene’ by many on social media and in the cricketing world.
Also READ: AUS vs IND: Here’s the reason behind Travis Head’s weird celebration after dismissing Rishabh Pant on Day 5 of MCG Test
Navjot Singh Sidhu demands ICC to take action against Head
Former Indian cricketer and a popular broadcaster Navjot Singh Sidhu also expressed his strong disapproval with the act of Head. Sidhu, who has always been known for his outspoken nature, particularly on matters concerning the integrity of cricket, demanded the International Cricket Council (ICC) take action. His call for a review on the matter was echoed by fans and former cricketers alike, many of whom felt that while cricket allows for exuberant celebrations, they should not cross into disrespect or vulgarity.
Sidhu’s social media post went on to describe the act as setting the “worst possible example” when children, women, and people of all ages are watching the game. Sidhu also called for “stringent punishment” to deter such conduct in the future, emphasizing the need to uphold the spirit of cricket.
“Travis head’s obnoxious behaviour during the course of the Melbourne test doesn’t auger well for for the gentleman’s game…… sets the worst possible example when there are kids, women , young & old watching the game……. this caustic conduct did not insult an individual but a nation of 1.5 billion Indians……stringent punishment that would serve a deterrent for the future generations needs to be slapped on him so that no one dares follow suit !!!” wrote Sidhu on X (formerly Twitter).
Travis head’s obnoxious behaviour during the course of the Melbourne test doesn’t auger well for for the gentleman’s game…… sets the worst possible example when there are kids, women , young & old watching the game……. this caustic conduct 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-hearted inside joke according to Australian captain Cummins, was explained as Head mimicking putting his hot finger into a cup of ice, a reference to a previous celebration after taking a wicket. Despite Cummins’ attempt to diffuse the situation during the post-match press conference, the celebration had already sparked widespread debate about sportsmanship, cultural sensitivity, and the boundaries of on-field celebrations.