The first unofficial Test between Australia A and India A showcased moments of cricketing brilliance, but an unexpected incident stole the spotlight on the fourth and final day at the Great Barrier Reef Arena.
Umpire Shawn Craig informed the Indian players that the ball had been replaced at the start of play due to suspected tampering. Cricket Australia later clarified in a statement that the ball was changed “due to deterioration,” adding that both teams’ captains and managers had been notified.
However, the real focus turned to the heated exchange between Indian wicketkeeper Ishan Kishan and Craig. This conversation quickly became a hot topic among cricket experts.
Craig, asserting authority, said, “When you scratch it, we change the ball. No more discussion. Let’s play. This is not a discussion.” Kishan replied, “So, we are going to play with this ball?” Craig responded, “You’re playing with that ball.” Kishan then retorted, “That’s a very stupid decision.” Craig warned, “Excuse me. You will be on the report for dissent. That is inappropriate behavior. Because of your actions, we changed the ball.” Kishan sarcastically added, “Thank you!”
Commenting on this exchange, Candice Warner, a retired ironwoman and panelist on Fox Cricket, saw it as evidence of India’s influence in world cricket.
“It just goes to show the power of India and how strong they are. A lot of these umpires want to be part of the IPL,” she stated.
Another panelist weighed in, saying, “India runs the game. Every dollar that is raised in cricket is raised by India. This change over the last few decades has been extraordinary.”
Ultimately, Australia A clinched the game in Mackay by seven wickets. Kishan, meanwhile, struggled to make an impact, scoring 4 and 32 in his two innings.