Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj has once again found himself in the spotlight, but this time for a series of fiery actions on the field during the second Test against Australia in Adelaide. On Day 1, Siraj's frustration boiled over when he threw the ball angrily at the stumps, an act that did not go unnoticed by match officials. But things took another dramatic turn on Day 2, as Siraj's no-look appeal for an LBW against Marnus Labuschagne riled up both the Australian batter and the on-field umpire.
It was the third over of the day when Siraj bowled a good-length delivery to Labuschagne, who was batting on 23. The ball struck the inside edge of the Australian's bat and then hit his pads. However, instead of appealing to the umpire, Siraj threw his hands wide in celebration before even looking at the umpire. It was only after he had passed the batter that he glanced back, only to see umpire Richard Illingworth shaking his head. Indian captain Rohit Sharma also opted not to challenge the decision, as he was sure that Labuschagne had edged the ball before it struck his pads. Replays later confirmed that there was an inside edge.
This incident is not the first time Siraj's on-field actions have raised eyebrows. On Day 1, Siraj became visibly frustrated during the 10th over of his spell when Labuschagne moved away from the stumps, noticing a spectator walking across the sight screen with a "beer snake." Annoyed by the distraction, Siraj threw the ball towards the stumps in anger, a gesture that is against the ICC's Code of Conduct.
• Man runs behind the sight screen with a beer snake
— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) December 6, 2024
• Marnus pulls away while Siraj is running in
• Siraj is not happy
All happening at Adelaide Oval 🫣 #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/gRburjYhHg
With these incidents occurring in quick succession, Siraj could face disciplinary action at the conclusion of the Adelaide Test. While his fiery spirit and passion for the game are well known, these outbursts might cost him, as the match officials are likely to scrutinize his actions further.
As the Test match continues, Siraj will hope to channel his energy more constructively and avoid further controversy.