Tensions ran high during the morning session on Day 3 of the Headingley Test as India’s vice-captain Rishabh Pant was visibly frustrated over the umpires’ refusal to change the ball, despite apparent wear and tear. The incident occurred shortly after Jasprit Bumrah requested a ball change, which was denied even after the ball passed through the gauge—typically a sign it no longer meets regulation standards.
Pant, known for his passionate on-field persona, couldn’t hold back his emotions. After a heated exchange with the on-field umpire, he flung the ball away in frustration. The dramatic moment sparked loud boos from the Headingley crowd, echoing Pant’s disapproval across the ground. His reaction reflected the mounting tension as England looked to claw back into the game.
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Skipper Shubman Gill also joined the conversation, voicing concerns about the condition of the ball a few overs later. Mohammed Siraj and Bumrah repeatedly approached the officials, expressing dissatisfaction as India felt the deteriorated ball was affecting their grip and swing.
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On air, former India coach Ravi Shastri weighed in, suggesting that Shubman Gill should hold off further protests temporarily. “It’s not worth going to the umpire right now. Let it go for 4-5 overs. Otherwise, it’ll just irritate the umpires more,” Shastri said during commentary.
The drama unfolded just as England began shifting gears. Harry Brook took on the attack, unsettling Siraj with a cheeky ramp shot followed by a couple of aggressive strokes.
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India had earlier made a crucial breakthrough when Prasidh Krishna dismissed Ollie Pope for 106, drawing a feather outside off. However, the momentum seemed to slip when a no-ball from Bumrah denied them Brook’s wicket late in the day—a massive lifeline for England as they built towards a strong reply to India’s 471.
