The second game of the Ashes 2023 series witnessed a controversial incident involving Jonny Bairstow’s run-out, adding spice to the ongoing cricket rivalry between England and Australia. Australia secured a 43-run victory, taking a 2-0 lead in the five-match series. However, the match at Lord’s will be remembered for the events that ignited multiple debates.
The most perplexing moment was the bizarre dismissal of Jonny Bairstow, which left the crowd, members of the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), and the home team bewildered. After evading a bouncer from Cameron Green, the English wicketkeeper left his crease casually, assuming that the over had concluded. Australia’s wicketkeeper, Alex Carey, threw the ball directly into the stumps, catching Bairstow off guard and resulting in his departure.
ALSO READ: Jitesh Sharma Reveals Batting Secrets And Adaptability In IPL 2023
Approximately 24 hours prior to Bairstow’s run-out, spectators witnessed a contentious catch taken by Mitchell Starc to dismiss Ben Duckett, which was eventually overturned. Duckett played a shot towards fine leg, where Starc grabbed the ball but appeared to brush it against the turf while sliding. TV umpire Marais Erasmus deemed it not out, granting Duckett a second chance before he went on to score 83 runs.
Mitchell Starc accepts his catch was correctly ruled not out, and England must similarly accept Jonny Bairstow’s stumping.#Ashes @LouisDBCameron https://t.co/1ED1cOmXSm
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) July 3, 2023
This incident sparked a debate, and in response, Mitchell Starc stated, “I had no doubt I was in control of the ball. They’re adhering to the letter of the law, which states that since my body was bracing against the ball, it was considered to be on the turf. It will be interesting to see how similar catches are handled in the future.”
He further added, “But we have to accept that decision, just as they will have to accept the stumping. Let me put it this way – Bairstow’s dismissal was just as valid as my catch being ruled not out.”
ALSO READ: Indian Cricket Team Engages In Fun Volleyball Session Upon Arrival In West Indies
The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), responsible for the Laws of Cricket, provided explanations for both incidents, justifying the umpire’s decisions. Starc believes that the discussion should cease, stating, “If we adhere to the letter of the law, the decisions were correct. We will leave it in the hands of the officials.”
The controversial run-out and overturned catch have undoubtedly generated significant buzz and controversy in the ongoing Ashes series, adding excitement and fueling the rivalry between the two teams.
