Cricket Australia issued clarification and cleared the Indian A team, led by Ruturaj Gaikwad, of ball tampering during the Australia A versus India A match. Notably, the fourth day of the unofficial Test between both countries in Mackay began on a controversial note. The umpires had changed the ball used by the Indian team overnight. After their confrontation with the Indian team, the umpires were heard accusing the side of ball tampering.
However, later Cricket Australia issued a clarification and cleared the guests of ball tampering allegations, while stating that the ball was changed due to bad conditions. As per the official statement, CA said, “Both teams’ captain and manager were informed of the decision prior to play, and no further action would be taken.” However, there were discussions around Ishan Kishan as he was cautioned for dissent on the field but the side confirmed that he won’t be reported further for the exchange with the umpire.
What was the entire ball tampering controversy surrounding Ishan Kishan?
Notably, the fourth day of the game began with a controversy as the umpires had changed the ball overnight, which was used by the Indian team. The side was then seen questioning umpire Shawn Craig about the ball handed to them to resume the game. However, the umpire alleged the side of ball tampering and instructed them to continue with the new ball. Craig was heard saying on the microphone, “When you scratch it, we change the ball. No more discussion, let’s play.”
When the visitors attempted to argue, he said, “No more discussion; let’s play. This is not a discussion.” When Ishan Kishan asked if they would continue with the new ball, Craig was heard saying, “You’re playing with that ball.” The Indian wicketkeeper reacted to it by declaring the move a “really stupid decision.” The umpire responded to it by saying, “You will be on report for dissent. That’s inappropriate behaviour. It is because of your (team) actions we changed the ball.”
However, as mentioned, later CA declared that no action will be taken against Kishan.