In recent decades, Indian cricket enthusiasts have consistently identified a favorite antagonist. During the 1990s, that figure was Sanath Jayasuriya. The 2000s saw Ricky Ponting assume this role, while in the 2010s, Steve Smith kept fans awake at night. As of 2020, Travis Head has claimed this title, particularly after he broke the hearts of millions of Indian fans on the evening of November 19, 2023, and has continued to do so since.

While fans in Hyderabad cheer for Head when he represents the Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL, they harbor animosity towards him whenever India faces Australia. Indeed, Head has frustrated Indian supporters repeatedly, having dominated the Indian bowling attack from the 2023 World Test Championship final at Lord's to the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The mere sight of Head batting against India instills fear in their hearts.

However, while in India playing for SRH, Head addressed the complex love-hate dynamic he shares with Indian cricket fans. When questioned about their tendency to 'love to hate' him, he expressed his deep respect for Indians and their fervor for the sport.

"I take it as it comes. I respect the fact that India is such a large country with a massive following. I've been fortunate to perform well in a few matches. It's not my nature to take it too seriously, so I tend to approach it with a light-hearted attitude. Some of the reactions I find amusing, whether related to Australia vs India or my performance, no longer motivate me. I simply aim to enjoy myself and play well," Head shared with News18.

Travis Head loves to bat against India

Head's affinity for India began in 2018 when he recorded scores of 72 and 58 in his first two innings against them in Adelaide and Perth. However, it was his remarkable performance in the World Test Championship final, where he achieved a career-high 163, that truly captured the attention of fans, thwarting India's bid for a consecutive title. The situation intensified when Head scored a century in the final of the 2023 World Cup, abruptly ending India's impressive 10-match unbeaten streak and securing Australia's sixth ODI World Cup title.

His achievements did not stop there. Head followed up with impressive scores of 140 and 152 in Adelaide and Brisbane, respectively, which significantly challenged India during the five-Test series. Additionally, he contributed with scores of 79 in the 2024 T20 World Cup and a vigorous 39 in the Champions Trophy semi-final; however, India managed to triumph in both encounters. Recent matches between India and Australia, particularly in limited-overs formats, have seen victories for the Men in Blue, highlighting the competitive nature of their rivalry, a fact that Head acknowledges.

"I've faced India several times over the past 18 months and have performed well, but they have also had their successes against us. I certainly feel a connection with the fans," Head remarked.

Read Also: Mumbai Cricket Speaks Out on Suryakumar Yadav’s Future & Yashasvi Jaiswal’s Goa Links

Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!

HOW DID YOU LIKE THIS ARTICLE? CHOOSE YOUR EMOTICON!