Day four of the Boxing Day Test at the MCG between India and Australia turned intense when Pat Cummins, the Australian captain, questioned a third umpire’s decision. The incident occurred during India’s innings when Australian bowler Cummins delivered a full-length ball to Mohad Siraj. Siraj edged the ball, and Steve Smith took a catch at second slip, leading the Australians to celebrate, believing they had claimed the final wicket.

However, on-field umpire Michael Gough wasn’t sure and referred the decision to the third umpire, Sharfuddoula Saikat, to review whether the ball had touched the ground before being caught. After reviewing the footage, the third umpire confirmed that the ball had indeed bounced before Smith took the catch, and Siraj was ruled not out.

pic.twitter.com/hMEAEzFtc7

— Sunil Gavaskar (@gavaskar_theman) December 28, 2024

Despite the clear footage and the third umpire’s verdict, Cummins approached the umpires and insisted on a review of the third umpire’s decision. The umpires explained that the review process was already complete, and another review wasn’t permitted, as the footage showed the ball clearly hitting the ground. Cummins, visibly upset, did not accept the ruling and continued to argue.

Read Also:Nitish Kumar Reddy Reunites with Parents After Maiden Century

Experts and Fans React

This moment of frustration sparked surprise among cricket experts. Ravi Shastri, one of the commentators, remarked, “It was a very fast call, just two replays. I’ve never seen a player asking to review a third umpire’s decision. It’s an unusual situation.” Adam Gilchrist, another former cricketer, also found Cummins’ reaction surprising. He said, “The footage was clear, and yet Cummins didn’t let it go. It’s a strange scenario.”

On social media, fans reacted strongly to the incident. Many Indian fans criticized Cummins for not accepting the umpire’s decision gracefully. Some even compared his behavior to Ricky Ponting’s controversial moments in the 2008 series in India. One fan wrote, “This isn’t 2008, Cummins. Why are you still arguing with the umpires?”

While some defended Cummins, claiming his reaction showed passion for the game, many felt his actions undermined the spirit of cricket. The incident created a divide in opinions among cricket enthusiasts, with some questioning the third umpire’s process and others discussing how captains should manage such situations.

Sharfuddoula has had a mare there.

— Daniel Cherny (@DanielCherny) December 28, 2024

All that this bit of farcical officiating has done is deny Reddy a red-inker. Shame really as the tech’s there; use it properly non? #AUSvIND

— Isabelle Westbury (@izzywestbury) December 28, 2024

Despite the drama, the match continued without major disruption. Nathan Lyon dismissed Nitish Kumar Reddy for 114 runs in the very next over, and India’s innings ended at 369, trailing Australia by 105 runs.

The argument between Cummins and the umpires remained a key talking point, adding drama to an already tense and competitive Test match.