McCoy (Australia). Australia A continued their impressive run as they defeated India A by seven wickets in a four-day unofficial Test match here in which Indian wicket-keeper batsman Ishan Kishan got embroiled in a ball-change controversy. Chasing the target of 225 runs, the Australian team advanced its innings to 139 runs for three wickets on the fourth morning. Captain Nathan McSweeney (88 not out) and Beau Webster (61 not out) made an unbroken partnership of 141 runs for the fourth wicket. By doing this he led his team to an easy victory. However, the fourth day of the match started with a controversy over changing the ball.
Indian players also had a heated argument with umpire Shaun Craig regarding this matter. The umpire was heard saying that there was a scratch on the ball due to which it was changed, while Kishan described the decision to change the ball as ‘stupid’. Umpire Craig was heard explaining his decision to change the ball into the stump microphone. He was saying, “Scratch the ball, we’re changing it.” No more arguments. Let’s start the game.” Kishan did not remain silent on this. He replied, “So we are going to play with this ball…it is a very foolish decision.”
To this Craig replied, “Sorry, you will be reported for dissenting.” This is inappropriate behaviour. Because of your actions, we replaced the ball.” Cricket Australia later issued a statement saying the ball was replaced due to damage and both captains and the team management were informed about it before the start of the fourth day’s play. Had gone. Kishan will not be accused of dissent. Even though the ball was changed, Australia A were not awarded five penalty runs, as stated in Article 41.3.4 of the Code of Conduct. Changing the condition of the ball is a level three charge under Cricket Australia’s code of conduct. The second first-class match between the two teams will be played in Melbourne from Thursday.