New Delhi: Travis Head, India’s nemesis, suffered a groin injury during the rain-hit third Test between India and Australia at the Gabba, Brisbane. The rain-marred contest that witnessed several interruptions across five days ended in a draw as India survived another embarrassing loss in the five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy. With the series level at 1-1, Australia would need Head, the highest-run-getter in the series, fit and ready for the next two Tests as both teams look to wrestle control.
Head, who has made India his bunny over the last two years, appeared to struggle with a potential groin issue. However, the swashbuckling batter played down the concerns over his fitness in the post-match presentation ceremony, where he was awarded Player of the Series for his sensational century in the first innings.
Impact of Head’s injury on Australia’s chances
Head said he expects to be “fine” for the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne.
The 30-year-old batter has been the top performer in the series, amassing 409 runs at an average of 81.80. Head was struggling to run between the wickets during his brief stay at the crease on day five.
He was also caught by the cameras clutching his groin prompting Brett Lee, the former Australia pacer, to express worry during the commentary.
Meanwhile, former captain Ravi Shastri also expressed concern during the commentary, describing the injury as a potential “body blow” for Australia.
Head was also absent from the field during India’s second innings. Meanwhile, Australian skipper Pat Cummins also provided a positive update on Head’s injury.
“Trav (Head), he’ll be fine, it’s a bit of a tight quad, he’ll be fine for Melbourne,” captain Pat Cummins said after the match.
Ashwin’s retirement overshadows Gabba draw
While the focus on Day 5 was centred around the result of the match, Ravichandran Ashwin’s sudden announcement to retire from international cricket dominated the headlines. The legendary off-spinner, who confirmed his decision in the post-match press conference, retired with 537 wickets in 106 Tests and 765 scalps in international cricket.
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