India A face ball-tampering allegations in loss to Australia A, Ishan Kishan warned for dissent
New Delhi: The fourth day of the India A-Australia A unofficial Test at the Great Barrier Reef Arena in Mackay commenced controversially, as on-field umpires replaced the ball used by the visitors overnight following allegations of ball tampering.
Just before Sunday’s play began, with Australia A needing 86 runs to win, India A players were observed questioning umpire Shawn Craig regarding the ball that was handed over to resume the match.
“When you scratch it, we change the ball. No more discussion, let’s play,” Craig was overheard saying on the stump microphone.
As the Indian players tried to raise their concerns, umpire Shawn Craig firmly stated, “No more discussion; let’s play. This is not a discussion.”
When the India A wicket-keeper inquired whether they would continue playing with the newly handed ball, the umpire reaffirmed, “You’re playing with that ball.”
Kishan was subsequently penalized for showing dissent to umpire Craig, labeling the umpire’s decision as a “really stupid decision.”
“You will be on report for dissent. That’s inappropriate behaviour. It is because of your (team) actions we changed the ball,” the umpire responded.
Kishan, who has not featured in India colours since November 2023, was making his return to the national radar after a year.
While Kishan received a warning for dissent, it remains unclear who the umpires have accused of ball tampering. Umpire Shawn Craig, a former Victoria player, has officiated in over 50 First-Class matches and has been umpiring in men’s internationals since 2019.
Under Cricket Australia’s code of conduct, players involved could face bans if it is determined that India A intentionally altered 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.
Guided by captain Nathan McSweeney’s unbeaten 88 off 178 balls, Australia A comfortably chased down the 224-run target, securing victory by seven wickets.
Earlier, India A posted 312 in their second innings after giving up an 85-run first-innings lead to the hosts. Sai Sudharsan excelled with his second consecutive First-Class century, scoring 103 runs, while Devdutt Padikkal contributed 88 before a lower-order collapse curtailed India A’s innings.