Controversial umpire decision in the fifth Ashes Test during Steve Smith‘s innings stirred up spectators. The match at The Oval featured an attritional second day, with Australia adopting a cautious approach to gain a slender 12-run lead over England.
Steve Smith, the talismanic batter, played a crucial role in guiding Australia’s lower order and forming a 54-run partnership with captain Pat Cummins for the eighth wicket.
However, an intriguing moment occurred during this partnership when Smith attempted an ambitious second run off a delivery from Chris Woakes, tapping the ball to midwicket.
Substitute fielder George Ealham made a swift throw to wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow, and initially, it seemed like Smith was well short of his crease.
The England players and supporters erupted in celebration, convinced that Smith had run himself out, as the big screen replay appeared to confirm.
The situation took a dramatic turn when third umpire Nitin Menon reviewed the footage in detail. After several replays, Menon made a contentious call, ruling in favor of Steve Smith.
He determined that by the time the bails were dislodged from the stumps, Smith’s bat had crossed the crease, saving the Australian batsman from being dismissed.
Nitin Menon’s decision during Steve Smith’s innings was unexpected and surprised the entire stadium
George Ealham 🤝 Gary Pratt
An incredible piece of fielding but not to be… 😔 #EnglandCricket | #Ashes pic.twitter.com/yWcdV6ZAdH
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 28, 2023
The decision left the crowd divided, with a majority at The Oval booing in disagreement, while the Australian fans celebrated jubilantly.
The contentious call sparked heated debates among the commentators throughout the rest of the day’s play. As the discussions unfolded, it became evident that Menon’s decision was meticulous and accurate.
While there were initial mockeries on social media, Menon’s judgment garnered appreciation, even receiving praise from renowned Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin.
Smith, who was on 44 runs off 85 balls when the incident occurred, continued his innings and contributed significantly, adding 71 runs off 123 balls before eventually falling to Woakes.
Following his dismissal, Australia gained momentum through an aggressive counter-attack from Todd Murphy, the bespectacled spinner, who scored a quick 34 runs off 39 balls, including two fours and three sixes.
The thrilling match finally saw Australia being bowled out for 295 in response to England’s first innings total of 283, with the fall of their last wicket marking the end of the day’s play.
Despite the on-field drama and the controversial decision, the Test match continued to captivate fans around the world, underscoring the unpredictable and riveting nature of cricket.
Get the latest cricket news here, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram for more such updates.
