During the first Test match between England and India at Headingley, tensions flared on Day 3 following a series of events surrounding the match ball. India's wicketkeeper-batsman, Rishabh Pant, visibly displayed his frustration after umpire Chris Gaffaney denied the team's repeated requests to change the ball.
According to reports, the requests for a ball change began with Jasprit Bumrah, who appealed to the umpire after a delivery. Gaffaney inspected the ball using a gauge, but deemed it fit for continued use. Not long after, Pant himself took up the matter, approaching the umpire to argue the case for a replacement. When the umpire remained firm, Pant, in a moment of anger, hurled the ball backhanded towards Mohammed Siraj. While the throw was not aimed at anyone, and Siraj collected the ball without incident, Pant's actions were met with jeers from the crowd and could potentially attract scrutiny from the match referee for showing dissent.
Adding to the drama, Shubman Gill also approached the same umpire in the subsequent over to discuss the condition of the ball. Bumrah, persistent in his concerns, spoke to the umpire again after bowling another delivery. Ravi Shastri, commentating on the game, advised the Indian players against repeatedly appealing to the umpire, suggesting they wait a few overs before raising the issue again.
Cricket laws provide a framework for ball changes during a match. Umpires are responsible for ensuring fair play and are tasked with inspecting the ball frequently and irregularly. They have the authority to change the ball if it becomes wet, out of shape, lost, or damaged. Furthermore, in matches spanning multiple days, the fielding captain can request a new ball after 80 overs have been bowled with the old one. According to the BCCI's guidelines for the IPL 2025 season, the bowling team can request a ball change after the 10th over due to dew, and the umpires must comply if the request is made by the bowling captain at the end of an over.
These regulations aim to maintain a fair balance between bat and ball. Fielders are permitted to polish the ball (without artificial substances), remove mud, and dry a wet ball with a towel. However, actions that unfairly alter the ball's condition, such as rubbing it on the ground or tampering with its seams, are prohibited. If such actions occur, umpires can change the ball, award penalty runs to the batting side, and inform both captains about the reason for the change.
The incident involving Pant, Bumrah, and Gill highlights the importance of respecting the umpire's decision, even when disagreements arise. While frustration is natural in a high-pressure environment, players are expected to maintain decorum and adhere to the laws of the game.
