Code of conduct violation: ICC punishes Travis Head, Muhammad Siraj

Indian fast bowler Mohammad Siraj and Australian batsman Travis Head have been fined for violating the code of conduct during the second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Australia achieved the required target of 19 runs without losing any wickets on the third day of the second Test played in Adelaide on Sunday. The Indian cricket team was bowled out for 180 runs in their first innings of the match.

Siraj, however, celebrated in a provocative manner and made an inappropriate gesture towards the dressing room after dismissing Australian batsman Travis Head for 140 runs.

In response, Travis Head also behaved inappropriately, leading to an exchange of bitter words between the two players. After the unpleasant incident, Siraj was criticised by former Australian cricketers and commentators.

On Monday, Siraj was fined for violating the code of conduct.

The ICC fined Siraj 20 per cent of his match fee, while both Siraj and Travis Head were given one demerit point each.

The ICC said, "Muhammad Siraj and Travis Head have admitted their mistake."

India defeated Australia by 295 runs in the first match of the 5-Test series, while in the second match, Australia defeated India by 10 wickets to level the series by 1-1.

India emerged victorious in the opening Test at Perth Stadium, winning by 295 runs. After being bowled out for 150 in their first innings, India made a strong comeback by dismissing Australia for 104. In their second innings, India declared at 487/6, setting Australia a daunting target of 534. The hosts were bowled out for 238, handing India a comprehensive win.

Australia leveled the series with a commanding 10-wicket victory in the second Test at Adelaide Oval. India scored 180 in their first innings, while Australia responded with 337, taking a significant lead. In the second innings, India managed 175, setting Australia a modest target of 19 runs, which they achieved without losing a wicket.

With the series tied at 1-1, the upcoming third Test in Brisbane promises to be a crucial encounter in this closely contested series.