Brisbane, Dec 19: Australia’s man in form, Travis Head, played down concerns over his fitness after appearing to struggle with a potential groin issue during the rain-marred drawn third Test against India at the Gabba here on Wednesday.Head said he expects to be “fine” for the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne.
The five-match series is tied 1-1 going into the Boxing Day Test after the drawn affair.
“Very pleased with the way I am batting at the moment. Just a little sore, but I should be fine (before the next game),” Head, who was adjudged the player of the match, said after the game.
The 30-year-old, who has been in red-hot form with 409 runs at an average of 81.80 this series, noticeably struggled to run between the wickets during his brief innings of 17 on day five.
At times, he was seen clutching his groin, raising concerns among the commentators.
Former pacer Brett Lee called the visuals “worrying signs”, noting Headās limited movement, while Indian great Ravi Shastri also expressed concern, describing the potential injury as a “body blow” for Australia, given Head’s big role in the batting lineup.
Head did not take the field during India’s second innings, fuelling further speculation.
“Travis, he’ll be fine. It’s a bit of a tight quad. He’ll be fine for Melbourne,” asserted his captain Pat Cummins.
The left-hander further reflected on his approach this series, attributing his success to adapting well to challenging conditions and staying composed at the crease.
“Challenging wicket. I had to work through the gears. I had different plans, pleased I could get through those. Good partnership with (Steve) Smith,” he said on their centuries, contributing to their 241-run massive stand.
“I just try to sum up the conditions well. What I’ve done well this series is assess the conditions. Pleased with the tempo I’ve batted with. Pretty relaxed communication.
“Felt like he was back in his rhythm, and he gives me full freedom and confidence knowing he’s going to be there for a long while. I feel like I am playing the situation in front of me,” he added.