The 2023 Ashes series took an unexpected turn as former Australia captain Ricky Ponting called for an investigation into a controversial ball change that seemed to turn the fortunes of the home team. The incident, which occurred during the fifth and final match of the series, has left the cricketing world buzzing with debates and discussions.
Australia lost despite a solid foundation
In the 37th over, with Australia in a strong position at 126/0, opener Usman Khawaja faced a dangerous blow to his helmet, causing damage to the ball in the process. In line with the rules, a like-for-like replacement was provided, but much to Australia’s dismay, the new ball appeared to be relatively newer and shinier than the old one. England‘s pace bowlers quickly capitalized on this unexpected advantage, striking with the first delivery from the fresh Dukes ball.Â
The turn of events took a toll on Australia’s momentum, shattering their hopes of securing a memorable Ashes victory in England for the first time since 2001. Ponting expressed his frustration and concern over the significant discrepancy in the condition of the two balls, calling for a thorough investigation into the matter. The impact of this ball change was undeniable, potentially altering the course of the game and casting a shadow over the Test match.
Khawaja speaks on the ball being changedÂ
Khawaja, who bore the brunt of the controversial ball, revealed his disappointment and surprise at the incident. He immediately noticed the glaring differences in the replacement ball and brought his concerns to on-field umpire Kumar Dharmasena’s attention. The ball felt far fresher than expected, and the writing on both sides indicated that it was indeed a newer ball. Khawaja even warned his teammates in the dressing room about the potential challenges posed by the new ball.
The Australia openers, Khawaja and David Warner, had brilliantly survived the old Dukes ball’s initial burst, building a formidable century stand and leaving England scrambling for other options. Although Australia managed to weather the storm and survive until the rain-interrupted end of Day 4, England made a resounding comeback on Day 5. Warner and Khawaja fell in quick succession, shifting the momentum back in England’s favour.Â
The final result saw Australia lose by a mere 49 runs, with Chris Woakes shining as the star with his impressive four-wicket haul. Khawaja’s revelations post-match shed light on the impact of the ball change, with him describing the intense force with which it hit his bat. The unexpected freshness and swing of the ball troubled the Australian batsmen and ultimately proved pivotal in England’s triumphant series-levelling win.
“As soon as they changed that ball, I knew straight away that ball was very different. I went up to (umpire Kumar Dharmasena) and asked, ‘How old this ball? It feels like it’s eight overs old.’ You could see the writing both sides, and it hit my bat so hard. I’ve opened the batting in every single innings this Ashes series, and I haven’t felt a ball hit my bat as hard as that ball. I said to the boys coming in, ‘Be careful, this new ball is going to be tricky’.”, Khawaja said after the game.
Despite the disappointment and frustration, Khawaja credited England’s formidable bowling attack, acknowledging their ability to exploit even the slightest advantage. The match highlighted the fine margins in Test cricket and how a small change can have a significant impact on the outcome. .
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