Temperature flared up at the Oval on Day 2 of the World Test Championship (WTC) final between India and Australia when Mohammed Siraj and Steve Smith involved in a heated argument on Wednesday (June 8).
After posting 327/3 on Day 1, Steve Smith's cracking century set the tone for Australia on Day 2. Smith, who was unbeaten on 95 on Day 1, struck back-to-back boundaries off Siraj's over to notch his 31st Test century and became only the second batter after Travis Head to hammer a ton in the WTC final. However, Smith consecutive fours riled up Siraj which saw a heated exchange between the duo. After bringing up his century, Smith backed away on Siraj's next ball due to some issue with the spider cam which left the Indian bowler livid. After seeing Smith backing away, Siraj threw the ball towards Smith in frustration. However, Smith tried explaining the situation to Siraj but the star Indian bowler, who didn't look pleased with whatever happened, was in no mood to take anything from the centurion.
Siraj and Smith were also seen exchanging some words few overs later post the incident and without further ado Twitterati munched on the new rivalry between the duo.
Here's the viral video…
However, later Siraj bounced back and sent the WTC Final's Day 1's hero Travis Head packing for 163 to provide India a much needed breakthrough.
Notably, Smith's love affair with India is well documented. The former Australia captain has tormented the Indian bowling attack for almost a decade. On Thursday, a similar script unfolded as Smith registered his 9th Test century against India. Talking about records, Smith now has seven Test tons in England. The only other visiting batter with more Test centuries in England is Sir Don Bradman, who dazzled in English conditions with 11 centuries. However, Smith later fell prey to Shardul Thakur in 99th over and walked back to pavilion after scoring 121 off 268 balls riding on 19 fours. Siraj returned with a brilliant bowling figure 108/4 to halt Australia's runathon as Pat Cummins' brigade were bundled out for 469.
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