Tensions flared on Day 3 of the second Test between England and India at Edgbaston, as England captain Ben Stokes contested a late DRS (Decision Review System) call made by Indian opener Yashasvi Jaiswal. The incident occurred during India's second innings when Jaiswal was given out LBW (leg before wicket) off the bowling of Josh Tongue.
Tongue bowled a sharp, in-dipping delivery that struck Jaiswal on the front pad. Umpire Sharfuddoula raised his finger, signaling that Jaiswal was out. Jaiswal then had a discussion with his batting partner, KL Rahul, before deciding to review the decision. However, Jaiswal signaled for the review right at the last moment.
Stokes immediately approached umpire Sharfuddoula, arguing that the 15-second timer had expired before Jaiswal signaled for the review. A heated discussion ensued between Stokes and the umpires, with KL Rahul also intervening to clarify the situation. The Edgbaston crowd reacted with loud boos as the drama unfolded.
Despite Stokes' protestations, the umpires allowed the review to proceed. Replays confirmed that the ball was indeed hitting the stumps, and Jaiswal was declared out. Further footage appeared to support Stokes' claim that Jaiswal initiated the review after the timer had expired.
Even though the review confirmed Jaiswal's dismissal, Stokes' frustration was evident. He believed that the rules regarding the DRS review timer should be strictly enforced. Some argue that the umpire should have consulted the third umpire to verify whether Stokes’ claim was correct. Others feel that as a batter, Jaiswal would discuss with his partner and not be concerned about the clock, making it the umpire's responsibility to make the call.
Jaiswal's dismissal for 28 off 22 balls meant the end of a promising start to India's second innings. Earlier in the day, India had gained a lead of 180 runs after Mohammed Siraj's six-wicket haul helped the visitors bowl out England for 407. Jaiswal also became the joint-fastest Indian to score 2,000 runs in Test cricket, reaching the milestone in 40 innings. He joins the ranks of Rahul Dravid and Virender Sehwag.
The DRS controversy added another layer of drama to an already intense Test match. While the decision ultimately went in England's favor, it sparked debate about the implementation and consistency of DRS protocols.
