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Marcus Harris and the on-field umpire were unmoved after India A appealed for a catch which was turned down.
The on-field umpire (left) adjudged it as not out. (Screengrab/Cricket Australia)
India A spinner Tanush Kotian was in disbelief after the on-field umpire’s refusal to adjudge Australia A opener Marcus Harris caught at first slip during the second day of the 2nd unofficial Test between the two teams underway at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. India A players including Kotian looked highly confident after Harris missed a defensive shot to a delivery that drifted into the left-hander before turning away. The ball flew to fielder at first slip who claimed the catch.
Harris, who survived the close call, was batting on 48 and went on to complete his half-century before being caught-behind off Prasidh Krishna on 74.
“Edge and he’s out. No he’s not! The Indians cannot believe it. Umpire Mike Graham-Smith is unmoved. To the naked eye, it looked like a genuine edge. Harris stood his ground,” the commentator said on air.
The first unofficial Test between the two sides was also hit by controversy after an on-field umpire claimed that the India A players changed the condition of the ball insinuating ball tampering.
The match officials changed the ball ahead of the start of play on Day 4 of the series opener and when the Indians protested, umpire Shawn Craig accused the visitors of scratching the ball.
“When you scratch it, we change the ball. No more discussion, let’s play,” Craig was heard as saying on the stump microphone.
When Ishan Kishan branded the decision as ‘stupid’, Craig warned him that he will report the Indian wicketkeeper for ‘inappropriate behaviour’.
“You will be on report for dissent, that is very inappropriate behaviour. Because of your actions we changed the ball,” Craig said in response.
Australia A won the match by seven wickets to take 1-0 lead in the series.
The second match got underway on Thursday at the MCG with Australia A opting to bowl first and skittling India A for 161. In reply, the hosts took a 62-run lead after being bowled out for 223.
- Location :
Melbourne (Australia)
