A major controversy flared up during the unofficial Test between India A and Australia A on Sunday as accusations of ball tampering had the umpires changing the match ball, leaving Indian players unsatisfied.
Before the scheduled start of play, umpires communicated with both teams regarding ball change. It had been decided to change the ball due to its deterioration, but Indian players appeared confused and protested at this. Wicket-keeper Ishan Kishan protested at umpire Shawn Craig by calling the change a “very stupid decision.” Craig reacted sharply stating that dissent from Kishan would be reported; it was caught on stump mic.
Cricket Australia later clarified the issue stating that the decision was based on natural wear and tear of the ball. The team managers and the captains were informed about it before play. Despite such an exchange, Cricket Australia declared that no disciplinary actions would be taken against Kishan or any player who was involved in that game.
Did Indian players attempt ball-tampering during unofficial Test between India A and Australia A?
The ball matters went further when apparently the Indians “scratched” the ball, though no 5-run penalty was levied as a standard occurrence when the umpires feel that the condition of the ball has been unfairly altered.
In cricketing laws, ball tampering is an offense by teams, and umpires reserve the right to punish any team involved in such acts. However, they did not apply this particular penalty in this match, as Craig was reported to have said, “When you scratch it, we change the ball. No more discussion; let’s play.”
In the field, Nathan McSweeney and Beau Webster took their Australia A team to a convincing seven-wicket victory as Nathan McSweeney scored 88 not out while Beau Webster added 61 not out. Both teams were brought into chaos in the game’s last stages following the infamous ball change.
Also, see: US sanctions 15 Indian companies for supporting Russian military and providing war supplies