At the conclusion of Day 3 in the final Test of the Australian summer, West Indies found themselves in a promising position, with a realistic chance of securing their first victory Down Under since 2003.
The hosts were at 60/2 in pursuit of a target of 216. The Caribbean team could have been in an even stronger position if luck had favored them.
A delivery from Shamar Joseph to Alex Carey dislodged the bails at 70/5, but they remained in the groove, allowing the wicket-keeper to play a pivotal innings, scoring a quickfire 65.
To prevent a recurrence of such incidents on the following day, Kavem Hodge took on the role of a temporary match referee. During a drinks break in the third session, the ground staff appeared on the field to replace the zing bails. Hodge promptly approached the stumps and engaged in a conversation with the match director.
"TV Umpire to director, we have a review for bail change" 🤣
— Fox Cricket (@FoxCricket) January 27, 2024
This is top quality from Kavem Hodge.
📺 Watch #AUSvWI on Ch. 501 or stream via @kayosports https://t.co/TdWj8lVL7d
📝 BLOG https://t.co/64QoMQtg4K
📲 MATCH CENTRE https://t.co/P2cWnKBjl1 pic.twitter.com/FmDhwxSKGJ
In a lighthearted and amusing skit, Hodge ensured he had the best angle to assess the fairness of the bails, eliciting laughter from both the staff and his fellow Windies players who eventually joined him in the center. This light-hearted moment added a touch of humor to an otherwise intense game.