The India vs Australia rivalry is one of the most intense in cricket, and the upcoming series is already heating up. India A, currently touring Australia, has been accused of ball tampering during a practice match against Australia A.
Ahead of the start of play on Sunday, match officials informed India A players that the ball had been changed due to tampering. Umpire Shawn Craig told the Indian players, “When you scratch it, we change the ball. No more discussion, let’s play.”
India A’s wicket-keeper batter for the match, Ishan Kishan, was furious at the umpire’s call, calling it a “stupid decision.”
Cricket Australia released a statement saying that the ball had to be changed “due to deterioration,” and that both managers and captains were informed of the decision before the start of play.
However, an anonymous India A player has denied the tampering allegations, suggesting that a “nail from the sideboards may have brushed the ball.”
According to Cricket Australia’s code of conduct, players involved in ball tampering could face bans if the team is found to have intentionally changed the condition of the ball.
“Any action(s) likely to alter the condition of the ball which are not specifically permitted under Law 41.3.2 may be regarded as unfair,” the code of conduct states.
Cricket Australia has since issued a statement saying that the ball change happened “due to deterioration.”
The incident has sparked controversy, with some accusing India A of cheating. However, the team has denied the allegations, and Cricket Australia has stated that the ball change was due to natural wear and tear.
