Australian MP Jason Wood has raised concerns over the controversial ball exchange on the third day of the first Test between England and Sri Lanka at Old Trafford recently.
A controversial ball change in Sri Lanka’s second innings drew criticism from commentators and players. The incident occurred after the 41st over when the umpires, Chris Gaffaney and Paul Reiffel, agreed to England’s request to replace a worn-out Dukes ball.
Commenting on the incident, Australian MP Jason Wood said ‘England cricket was at it again with a dodgy ball exchange.’
“Bad luck Sri Lankan cricket team in the second innings with a lead of 169, with Mendis 101 not out and had seen off fast bowlers when England changed the softball for a hard ball,” he said.
Pointing out the fifth and final Ashes Test of the previous summer, where a ball change also appeared to benefit England, he said “Sounds very similar to when England played Australia in the Ashes and changed softball for a five-year-old hard as a rock, shiny bouncing ball.
“England always complains about Jonny Bairstow’s dismissal but loves changing the balls to suit them. Better luck next game Sri Lanka,” he added, in a message on social media.
The controversial ball exchange took place at the time when Sri Lanka was 146 for 4, with a slender lead of 24 runs, and their veteran batter Angelo Mathews was well set on 59, alongside Kamindu Mendis on 33.
The new ball, which had a prouder seam, immediately made an impact. England’s bowlers, led by Chris Woakes, capitalized on the increased movement, with Woakes claiming the crucial wicket of Mathews for 65 in the 10th over with the replacement ball.
Although England managed only one more wicket before stumps, they created several chances, including dropped catches and close LBW calls, thanks to the extra swing and movement the new ball provided. (Newswire)
