The Boxing Day Test between India and Australia at Melbourne ended in disappointment for India, with Australia clinching a decisive 184-run victory. However, the match’s most talked-about moment was the controversial dismissal of Indian opener Yashasvi Jaiswal on Day 5.
The Incident: Jaiswal’s Hook Shot and the Review
Batting on a resilient 84, Jaiswal attempted to hook a bouncer from Australian skipper Pat Cummins but failed to connect cleanly. Wicketkeeper Alex Carey executed a spectacular diving catch, prompting a loud appeal from the Australians. However, on-field umpire Joel Wilson adjudged Jaiswal not out.
Australia opted for a review, which revealed contrasting evidence. UltraEdge, or Snicko, displayed a flat line, suggesting no contact with the bat. In contrast, real-time replays showed a noticeable deflection as the ball passed close to the bat. Third umpire Sharfuddoula decided in favor of the Australians, overturning the on-field decision.
Pat Cummins’ Take on the Dismissal
After the match, Pat Cummins expressed confidence in the decision, stating that there was sufficient evidence to deem Jaiswal out. “It was clear he hit it. There was a noise and a deviation,” Cummins told reporters during the post-match press conference.
Cummins also pointed out Jaiswal’s reaction after the review. “As soon as we referred it, he dropped his head, almost acknowledging the edge. UltraEdge might not have shown much, but the other evidence was convincing enough,” he explained.
Jaiswal’s Reaction and the Aftermath
Jaiswal, visibly upset, argued with the on-field umpires before reluctantly walking back to the pavilion. His dismissal proved pivotal, as India’s batting order collapsed soon after. Reduced to 140/7, the visitors couldn’t recover, with Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mohammed Siraj dismissed in quick succession.
Australia’s victory handed them a 2-1 lead in the five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy series.
The Road Ahead
India must win the final Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground, starting on January 3, to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, a title they have successfully defended since the 2014-15 series.
The controversy surrounding Jaiswal’s dismissal has sparked discussions about the reliability of UltraEdge and the decision-making process in tight calls, adding further drama to the already intense series.
