Travis Head has turned out to be the most discussed Australian cricketer among Indian cricket enthusiasts. Be it his brilliant knock in the 2023 World Test Championship final, the agony he inflicted in the ODI World Cup final in the same year, or his assertive batting performance in the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Head has consistently performed against India. His aggressive batting has frequently arrived at the most inopportune moment for Indian supporters transforming close matches into agonizing losses.

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But there is a different side to this tale. Head is frequently depicted as the villain when he turns out for Australia, but Indian fans treat him to a rather different kind of affection while he turns out for the IPL. Playing for Sunrisers Hyderabad, he is greeted with warm support and adoration. The juxtaposition is something that even Head finds amusing.

A Love-Hate Relationship with India

Talking about Indian fans, Head said to News18, I take it as it comes. I respect the fact that India is such a big country with such a big following. I've been fortunate to play well in a few games. Some of the reactions online are funny to me it doesn't push me to do more, I just try to enjoy and play well.Head acknowledged he's had starring roles against India in the past 18 months, but he also acknowledged where credit was due. They've played well against us too. I feel that connection with the fans, he said.

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Yet, it has not always been smooth sailing for him. In 2022, he lost his national contract and performed poorly in a stint at Sussex in England. But then, one day, after getting a brisk 49, he decided to just relax and play his natural game. That is the turning point in his career.

From his initial knocks in 2018 to his latest match-winning performances, Travis Head has become India's latest cricket villain respected for his talent, hated for the heartbreaks he inflicts, yet always respected. Regardless of whether booed in Aussie yellow or cheered in SRH orange, Head has certainly made a lasting impression on Indian cricket supporters.