England pacer Ollie Robinson was reportedly about to be reprimanded for his forceful dismissal of Usman Khawaja after his dismissal in the first innings of the opening Ashes match in Edgbaston, Birmingham.
Robinson finished with five wickets and was named player of the match for his outstanding performances as the seasoned opener.
Before dismissing the batter for 141 on the strength of a yorker castle, the right-arm pacer bowled a farewell delivery that was filled with expletives.
Later, when questioned during the press conference following the game, he defended his actions by saying that such aggressive behavior is common in the Ashes.
Both teams were given penalties by match referee Andy Pycroft for slow over rates. Moeen Ali was fined for using a drying agent on his hand.
Robinson, however, received only a warning rather than a punishment.
It was a “borderline case,” according to insiders with connections to the match officials. Under confidentiality, the source stated to The Age:
“Instead of a send-off, it was perceived as an excessive celebration.”
The second inning also featured a verbal exchange between Khawaja and Robinson
Khawaja had the last laugh as Australia won famously by two wickets to start the five-match series off on the right foot.
Due to a captain’s knock by Pat Cummins under pressure, the visitors were able to complete the 281-run task in the game’s final hour.
During the second innings as well, England’s opening batter turned out to be a challenge for them.
While leading the fourth inning run chase, he led the team in scoring with 65 runs off 197 pitches and was at his watchful best.
On the final day, there were some words exchanged during a drink break. James Anderson, an experienced England seamer, had to step in and mediate the conflict.
After the game, Khawaja acknowledged that he was not aware of Robinson’s send-off during the opening innings.
He characterized the exchange on the final day as lighthearted banter. He remarked:
“I was clueless the other day because of how loud the crowd was. Nothing significant happened in it on Tuesday.”
“Basically just some light conversation. For the most part, this game was played in good humor.”
Beginning on Wednesday, June 28, the two rivals will face off in the second Ashes Test at Lord’s. With four games remaining in the series, Australia leads 1-0.
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