In Lucknow, Sri Lanka won the toss and opted to bat first, making an impressive start. Sri Lanka’s disciplined and efficient batting, combined with Australia’s mismanagement of their review opportunities, allowed the Sri Lankan team to reach 91/0 after 16 overs.
It was during this time that the Kangaroos initiated an unnecessary third umpire referral, albeit one with a more lighthearted tone. In the 16th over’s final delivery, Adam Zampa bowled a well-flighted ball just outside off, tempting Kusal Perera to consider a single but then retract his decision.
In the meantime, Marnus Labuschagne swiftly released the ball towards the striker’s end from inside the inner circle, leading to a direct hit.
The bails were dislodged, and although the square-leg umpire was convinced that Kusal had safely grounded his bat within the crease, Labuschagne, standing next to him, vocally persisted with his appeal.
— Ishan Martinez (@IshanMarti66419) October 16, 2023
In the absence of alternative options, the on-field umpire was eventually persuaded to signal for the third umpire to review the incident. As anticipated, the review confirmed that Kusal had indeed kept his bat securely inside the crease, and he was not out.
