Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar faced sharp criticism on social media following his remarks on Yashasvi Jaiswal’s contentious dismissal during the fourth Test between India and Australia at Melbourne. Fans labeled his comments as “ridiculous” and “embarrassing,” further fueling the heated debate surrounding the incident.
Jaiswal’s Crucial Role and the Controversial Dismissal
Chasing a daunting target of 340, Yashasvi Jaiswal was the backbone of India’s innings, scoring a resilient 84. His efforts kept India in contention for a draw that would have set up a thrilling finale for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. However, Jaiswal’s dismissal off Pat Cummins proved to be a turning point, helping Australia secure a 2-1 lead in the series with one match remaining in Sydney.
The dismissal unfolded when Cummins bowled a short delivery that Jaiswal appeared to glove to the wicketkeeper. On-field umpire Joel Wilson initially declared him not out. Australia’s captain referred the decision for a review, and the third umpire overturned Wilson’s call, citing visual evidence of a deflection. This decision sparked outrage, particularly since Snicko technology showed no spike, raising doubts about the validity of the verdict.
Gavaskar’s “Optical Illusion” Theory
Commentating for Channel 7, Gavaskar claimed that the deflection could have been an “optical illusion.” He questioned the reliance on technology if it could not provide conclusive evidence. Gavaskar stated, “If the evidence of the technology is not to be taken, why have it at all? It looked like the ball might have touched the glove, but such instances can be optical illusions. With a new ball, deviations can appear exaggerated.”
His remarks, perceived as dismissive of the visual evidence, drew significant backlash from fans, who accused him of undermining the decision-making process.
Fan Outrage and Expert Clarifications
Social media was abuzz with criticism of Gavaskar, with fans calling his comments “pathetic” and “unnecessary.” The uproar highlighted growing frustrations over contentious umpiring decisions in high-stakes matches.
Meanwhile, Warren Brennan, the founder of BBG Sports, which operates Snicko, offered an explanation for the absence of a spike on the technology. He stated, “This was one of those deflections where there isn’t any noise, so Snicko only detected ambient sounds. The audio director confirmed no audible noise either. Perhaps Hot Spot could have resolved it more conclusively.”
A Controversial Series Moment
Jaiswal’s dismissal has added to the intense scrutiny surrounding umpiring decisions in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. With the final Test in Sydney yet to be played, the debate over the use and interpretation of technology in cricket continues to dominate discussions.
For now, Gavaskar’s comments remain a flashpoint, dividing opinions among fans and experts alike, as the cricketing world awaits the series decider.
