Day 2 of the third Ashes Test at the Adelaide Oval delivered yet another confusing DRS episode, with Snicko technology once again at the centre of controversy. A review involving England batter Jamie Smith turned chaotic as unclear audio-visual alignment left umpires struggling to reach a decisive conclusion, frustrating players and viewers alike.
The incident occurred during Australia’s push for control, when a delivery appeared to brush Smith’s bat before carrying to the slips. Replays on the broadcast suggested a clear edge, prompting expectations of a straightforward decision. Instead, the process became increasingly muddled as officials relied on Snicko data that failed to sync properly with the visuals.
Despite visible evidence of contact, the third umpire concluded there was insufficient proof due to the misplaced Snicko spike. As a result, the on-field not-out call stood, leaving both teams momentarily stunned by how the decision unfolded rather than the outcome itself.
Ironically, the final verdict was technically correct, as the catch in question was not clean and would not have resulted in a dismissal regardless. This irony was not lost on the Australian players, some of whom were seen laughing in disbelief at the farcical nature of the review process.
— Usman mohammed (@Usmanmoham35703) December 18, 2025
Social media quickly erupted with angry and sarcastic reactions, as fans mocked the reliability of Snicko in such a high-stakes contest. Many questioned how technology designed to clarify decisions could instead generate more confusion during a crucial Ashes moment.
The episode added to growing criticism of review systems used in the series, following earlier controversial calls in the same Test. As the Ashes continue to produce gripping cricket alongside heated debate, the Snicko saga has become another reminder of how technology can sometimes complicate the game rather than simplify it.