A major controversy erupted on the second day of the third Test between India and England at Lord’s when Indian captain Shubman Gill clashed with the umpire over a ball change. The incident took place during England’s innings when the Indian team objected to the replacement ball provided by the officials.
The situation unfolded in the 91st over, bowled by Mohammad Siraj. After delivering the fourth ball, Siraj noticed an irregularity in the shape of the Dukes ball and alerted the on-field umpire, Saikat Sharafuddaula of Bangladesh. Upon inspection using the standard measuring ring, the umpire confirmed that the ball’s shape had indeed been distorted and needed replacement.
As per protocol, the umpires brought out a selection box containing used balls of similar wear. One was chosen and handed over to the Indian team. But as soon as it reached them, captain Shubman Gill strongly objected.
Gill argued that the replacement ball looked significantly newer than the one being replaced. According to ICC regulations, when a ball is changed mid-innings, it should be replaced with a ball that has undergone roughly the same amount of usage — in this case, around 10 to 11 overs.
Shubman Gill confronted umpire Sharafuddaula, expressing his dissatisfaction with the condition of the replacement ball. The exchange became heated when Gill reportedly snatched the ball from the umpire’s hand in frustration. Fellow players Mohammad Siraj and Akash Deep also supported the protest, stating that the ball looked far newer and could affect the fairness of play. Siraj was seen trying to convince the umpire, but the decision was upheld and play resumed with the selected ball.
This isn’t the first time concerns have been raised about the Dukes ball in the ongoing series. Several players have previously commented on its inconsistent quality and premature wear. On Day 1, the new ball was taken after 80.1 overs, but it only lasted for 10.3 overs before being deemed unfit for play.
Despite the controversy, India had a strong start to Day 2, with Jasprit Bumrah striking early and putting England on the back foot. But the ball change issue has once again sparked debate over the quality control of match equipment and the consistency of umpiring decisions.
The incident is now being widely discussed among fans and pundits, especially on social media where the video of the confrontation has gone viral. It remains to be seen if the ICC or match officials will address the matter further as the series continues.
