On this day in 2008, Australia clinched a dramatic 122-run victory against India in the second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, equalling their record of 16 consecutive Test wins. However, the match’s legacy remains clouded by umpiring errors and the infamous “Monkeygate” scandal, making it one of the most controversial games in cricket history.
The Match Summary
Australia’s first innings total of 463 was built on Andrew Symonds’ unbeaten 162, a knock later criticized due to an umpiring error that allowed him to continue after edging the ball early in his innings. In reply, India posted a strong 532, powered by Sachin Tendulkar’s brilliant 154 not out.
Australia declared their second innings at 401/7, setting India a challenging target of 333 runs. Despite some resistance, India collapsed to 210 all out, handing Australia a dramatic win in the final moments of Day 5.
Umpiring Controversies
The match became infamous for a series of umpiring errors that had a significant impact on the outcome:
Symonds’ Edge: On 30, Symonds edged a delivery to the wicketkeeper, but the appeal was dismissed, enabling him to score a game-changing 162 not out.
Michael Clarke’s Incidents: Clarke edged a catch to second slip but was not given out. Later, his contentious catch to dismiss Sourav Ganguly was upheld, based on a pre-series agreement to trust the fielder’s word.
Other Errors: Several incorrect decisions, including a stumping opportunity against Symonds and disputed leg-before-wicket appeals, added to the controversy.
In response, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) filed an official protest. The International Cricket Council (ICC) later removed umpire Steve Bucknor from officiating in the next Test in Perth.
The “Monkeygate” Scandal
The match was further tarnished by an altercation between India’s Harbhajan Singh and Australia’s Andrew Symonds. Symonds accused Harbhajan of using a racial slur, alleging he was called a “monkey.” Match referee Mike Procter held a hearing and imposed a three-match ban on Harbhajan.
The decision triggered outrage in the Indian camp, with suggestions of abandoning the tour. After an appeal, testimonies revealed a possible misunderstanding, leading to the ban being overturned. Instead, Harbhajan was fined 50% of his match fee.
Legacy of the Sydney Test
While Australia celebrated their record-equalling victory, the Sydney Test remains a symbol of cricket’s darker moments, highlighting the need for fair play, accurate officiating, and mutual respect on the field. Over a decade later, it serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding the spirit of the game.
