Team India has reportedly voiced strong concerns over ball handling during the third Test at Lord’s, claiming it impacted the fairness of the match. According to a report by The Indian Express, the Indian team officially raised the issue with the ICC match referee, alleging that England received preferential treatment when a new ball was issued mid-innings.
The incident occurred during England’s first innings when the second new Dukes ball used by India lost shape just 10 overs in. Instead of receiving a ball in similar condition, India was given a replacement estimated to be 30 to 35 overs old. This caused frustration within the team, especially as the game was at a turning point.
India’s Swing Advantage Lost After Ball Switch
At the time of the ball change, Jasprit Bumrah had just taken three quick wickets, dismissing Ben Stokes, Joe Root, and Chris Woakes in a fiery spell. However, after the replacement, India’s bowlers reportedly lost their swing and edge, giving England a chance to recover.
An Indian team official told The Indian Express, “The timing of the change ruined our momentum. After the new ball was replaced, England batted freely, and our bowlers had no control.”
Adding to the controversy, the team wasn’t informed about the condition of the replacement ball. “Had we known the new ball was much older, we would’ve kept the deformed one,” the official added.
Calls for ICC Intervention and Rule Change
India has now asked the ICC to reconsider the ball replacement rule, highlighting the need for transparency and fairness in such decisions. Current protocols do not require umpires to disclose the age of the replacement ball, which India believes gives an unfair edge under certain conditions.
Supporting India’s claims, ESPNcricinfo’s data showed the original ball produced 1.869 degrees of swing, while the replacement managed only 0.855 degrees. The drop in swing, according to India’s team management, played a key role in England’s eventual 22-run victory.
With the series now 2-1 in England’s favor, the incident has stirred debate on the need for clearer ball change rules in Test cricket.
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