West Indies head coach Daren Sammy strongly criticized TV umpire Adrian Holdstock for what he called glaring mistakes during the ongoing first Test against Australia in Barbados. On Day 2, two pivotal decisions went against the West Indies, leading to the dismissals of Roston Chase and Shai Hope under controversial circumstances.
Chase was given out LBW to Pat Cummins and chose to review immediately. Despite clear replays showing the ball had deflected off the bat, the third umpire upheld the on-field decision, ending Chase’s innings at 44. Later, Hope was ruled caught behind even though replays showed the ball had touched the ground before being collected by wicketkeeper Alex Carey.
The call sparked further outrage, especially as a similar incident involving Travis Head the previous day had gone in the batter’s favor. Addressing the media after the day’s play, Sammy did not hold back in his criticism of the TV umpire, expressing frustration over the apparent inconsistency in decision-making (as reported by ESPN Cricinfo).
“We are just trying to find some sort of understanding as to what the process is. We only hope for consistency. That’s all we could ask for. When there is doubt in something, just be consistent across the board. I have noticed, especially with this particular umpire, it’s something that for me started in England. It’s frustrating. I just ask for consistency in the decision-making.”
He further added:
“Look, you don’t want to get yourself in a situation where you’re wondering about certain umpires. Is there something against this team? But when you see decision after decision, then it raises the question. I know he’s here for the series. You don’t want to go in a Test match having that doubt.”
Caught or did the ball touch the ground? 🫣
Windies are furious with that decision. What's your call? ☝️ or ❌#WIvAUS pic.twitter.com/6evBQGk7vq
— FanCode (@FanCode) June 26, 2025
“Wait and Watch” – Daren Sammy Hints at Surprise Move
Daren Sammy revealed that the West Indies are still considering whether to file an official complaint regarding the umpiring decisions in the first Test against Australia. However, the head coach acknowledged the risk of players facing fines if they speak out publicly against the match officials.
“You’ll have to wait and see for that. (lodging an official complaint). We know the rules. We know fines going all across the board. I don’t want them to focus on that,” said Sammy (via the aforementioned source).
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