On Day 2 of the third Test match between India and England at Lord’s, a strange incident unfolded when the Indian team raised concerns about the condition of the match ball.
This occurred merely 10.4 overs after the second new ball had been taken. Indian players approached the umpires, suggesting that the ball was not behaving normally.
To verify, the umpires used the ring gauge — a device designed to test the ball’s shape — and found that the ball did not pass through it. Consequently, they decided to replace it.
However, what followed was far from routine. The replacement ball did not sit well with Indian captain Shubman Gill and fast bowler Mohammed Siraj. Both seemed dissatisfied with the substitute, visibly expressing their frustration.
Gill was seen arguing with the umpires about the condition of the new ball, while Siraj was caught on the stump microphone questioning its age, saying, “This is a 10-over old ball? Seriously?”
Shubman Gill’s discontent grew when he pointedly questioned whether the ball was genuinely only 10 overs old. Despite his objections, the umpire showed little concern and moved forward with the proceedings. Gill did not seem convinced and refrained from showing any acceptance of the decision, his frustration evident.
Even during the drinks break, the matter did not settle. Gill continued discussing the issue with the umpires, showing them the ball and trying to explain his doubts. His visible agitation reflected his disappointment, especially as the match officials did not appear to share his concerns or take any additional action.
The episode raised questions among viewers and analysts alike. Players usually do not object so strongly unless there is genuine doubt or suspicion. In English conditions, where the ball’s behavior plays a critical role in swing and seam bowling, having an improperly aged or poorly conditioned replacement ball can significantly influence the game.
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Such incidents can potentially alter the course of a match and hence drew attention for possibly being more than a routine ball change.