The turn of events in the 2nd Aus-Ind test has left even a non-enthusiast like me disappointed and fuming. There are 2 issues which rankle me – the gross umpiring ‘errors’ and Ricky Ponting’s behaviour during Dada’s dismissal and the punishment meted out to Bhajji.
By media accounts there were 9 umpiring errors during the match and the Indians were at the receiving end of all of them (barring one). Of these I have seen only the crucial dismissals of Dravid and Ganguly. And they both look gross errors. Especially the way Ganguly was given out. The umpire gave him out based on what Ponting had to say. It was as if Ponting was the umpire!!! The fact that Ponting could say that the catch was clean when replays show otherwise just proves to what extent the Aussies will go to win a match. Utterly despicable and dishonest behaviour. The commentators kept saying such errors happen and that we have the benefit of technology, the umpires don’t. Bullshit. The umpires can always ask the 3rd umpire. Especially in a situation like in today’s match they should have used it. It was their duty. That this might also not have helped is an entirely different matter. Even when Andrew Symonds’ stumping was referred to the 3rd umpire, he was given not out by the 3rd umpire (who incidentally was an Australian) when television replays showed he was out (the same technology was used by the 3rd umpire to give him not out). This is the Aussie sportsmanship and honesty.
Then there is the issue of alleged racial comments made by Bhajji against Symonds. Firstly there is no proof of the same. It will be interesting to see what proof the ICC has to show us. Secondly, racist slurs have been a part of the Aussies’ cricket lingo for long. Why have they never been punished? Till the Aussies were the masters of sledging there were no rules against it. When others caught up with them rules have been enforced. And selectively at that. No doubt Bhajji should be punished if he made those comments, but show us the proof. And punish all who err. Rules should be for everyone.
All-in-all it was a sad day for cricket.
