During their match against Australia A, the India A team on tour has been accused of tampering with the ball.
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy has yet to begin, and already a major issue has developed. India A squad, currently on tour in Australia for three unofficial Tests, has been accused of ‘ball tampering’ during a practice match against Australia A. Before the start of the day’s play on Sunday, match officials told India A players that the ball had been replaced due to tampering. The development was brought to the attention of Indian players by umpire Shawn Craig during the first unofficial Test. He explained, “When you scratch it, we change the ball. No more debate; let us play.”
Indian players were displeased with the development and complained to the umpire. According to the Indian Express, Craig responded with, “No more discussion; let’s play.” This isn’t a discussion.
When the players asked if they would be given a new ball, the umpire replied, “You’re playing with that ball.”
India Ishan Kishan, A’s wicket-keeper batter for the match, slammed the umpire’s call, calling it a “stupid decision”.According to Cricket Australia’s code of conduct, players engaged in the ball tampering incident may face suspension if the team is determined to have willfully modified the state 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,” states Cricket Australia’s code of conduct.
Only fast bowler Prasidh Krishna, all-rounder Nitish Kumar, and batsman Abhimanyu Easwaran represent India A in the Tests.Players like fast bowler Prasidh Krishna, all-rounder Nitish Kumar, and batsman Abhimanyu Easwaran who played in the India A vs. Australia A match are also included in India’s senior squad for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
