Day four of the unofficial Test between India A and Australia A at the Great Barrier Reef Arena in Mackay was filled with drama after a controversial decision to change the ball overnight. Australia A began the day needing just 86 runs to secure victory, but tensions flared when India A players questioned the umpires’ decision to replace the ball.
On-field umpire Shawn Craig explained to India A that the ball was changed because it had been scratched, implying possible damage by the players. Craig was caught on the stump mic saying, “When you scratch it, we change the ball. No more discussion; let’s play.” Despite the players’ protests, Craig held firm, refusing further discussion.
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India A wicketkeeper Ishan Kishan was visibly frustrated with the decision. He questioned the umpire about whether the new ball would stay in play, only for Craig to warn him against dissent. Craig sternly reminded Ishan, saying, “You will be on report for dissent. That’s inappropriate behavior. It is because of your (team) actions we changed the ball.” The situation became more heated as Kishan expressed his disappointment, calling the umpire’s call a “really stupid decision.”
🚨 REPORTS 🚨
A controversial start to the Australia A vs. India A unofficial Test series! 👀🏏
India A face accusations of ball tampering, with Ishan Kishan reported for dissent after umpire Shawn Craig’s decision to change the ball 🤯 #IshanKishan #AUSAvINDA #Cricket… pic.twitter.com/NcPYj8ImG9
— Sportskeeda (@Sportskeeda) November 3, 2024
Following the incident, widespread speculation existed about whether any player would face charges for ball-tampering or dissent. However, the umpires did not directly accuse players of deliberately scratching the ball. Later, Cricket Australia (CA) clarified that the ball was changed due to natural wear and tear, not player misconduct.
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In an official statement, CA stated that the decision was communicated to both teams’ captains and managers before the fourth day’s play. This transparency aimed to resolve any misunderstandings and ease the growing tension on the field. The clarification helped calm the situation, and no formal charges were filed against Ishan Kishan or any other India A player.
With Cricket Australia stepping in, the focus is likely to shift back to the game itself, even as the incident highlights the challenges of handling ball conditions in a high-stakes match.
