Tempers flared on Day 4 of the second Test between India and the West Indies in Delhi as Jasprit Bumrah challenged an umpire's decision during John Campbell's innings. The incident occurred when Bumrah bowled one that struck Campbell on the pads, prompting a loud LBW appeal. Umpire Richard Illingworth signaled not out, leading Shubman Gill to opt for a DRS review after Bumrah insisted that the ball would have hit the stumps if the bat was not involved.
Replays showed the ball making contact with Campbell's inside edge before hitting his pads, leading the TV umpire to uphold the on-field decision. This meant India lost a review, and Campbell remained not out. Bumrah was visibly frustrated and was caught by the stump mic questioning the decision, saying, "It's out; you know it…".
The West Indies were under pressure after India enforced the follow-on, and had been reduced to 10/2 early in their second innings. Campbell, along with Shai Hope, then mounted a significant partnership, frustrating the Indian bowlers. At the time of the contentious decision, Campbell was nearing his maiden Test century, adding to the tension of the moment.
Campbell went on to achieve his century, reaching the milestone with a six off Ravindra Jadeja. It was a significant moment for the West Indies, marking their first century partnership in eight Tests. His innings provided much-needed resilience after a shaky start.
Earlier in the match, India's Kuldeep Yadav had dismantled the West Indies' middle order in the first innings, supported by Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah. Kuldeep completed a five-wicket haul, reinforcing his ability to perform even on flat pitches. The Indian team's assistant coach, Ryan ten Doeschate, defended the decision to enforce the follow-on, viewing it as a test of endurance for the team.
The partnership between Campbell and Hope proved crucial for the West Indies, who were looking to reduce India's lead. Campbell's aggressive approach put pressure back on the Indian bowlers. The incident with Bumrah added a layer of intensity to the match, highlighting the importance of each decision in the context of the game.
