Akash Deep's dismissal of Joe Root in the second Test at Edgbaston has ignited a controversy, with questions raised about whether the delivery was a no-ball. The incident occurred on Day 4, when Akash Deep bowled Root with a delivery that commentators, including Alison Mitchell, suggested was a back-foot no-ball.

Mitchell, commentating on BBC TMS, pointed out that Akash Deep's back foot appeared to have landed outside the return crease by approximately two inches. She noted that this infringement was not noticed by the on-field umpires. The visual replays seemed to support this observation, leading to considerable discussion and debate among fans and experts.

According to MCC Law 21.5.1, "For a delivery to be fair in respect of the feet, in the delivery stride (21.5.1) the bowler's back foot must land within and not touch the return crease appertaining to his/her stated mode of delivery". Law 21.5.2 adds that the bowler's front foot must land with some part of the foot on the same side of the imaginary line joining the two middle stumps as the return crease described in 21.5.1, and behind the popping crease.

However, former Indian coach Ravi Shastri offered a counter-argument, stating that Akash Deep's foot was in the air above the return crease when releasing the ball and not touching the ground. Shastri argued that this would make the delivery a valid one according to the rules.

Despite the debate, the on-field umpires did not call a no-ball, and Root was given out. The dismissal stood, adding to the drama of the Test match. According to some opinions, the fact that the umpires and third umpire missed the potential infringement meant the decision remained valid.

The controversy raises questions about umpiring standards and the reliance on technology to ensure fair play. While some argue that the decision should have been overturned with the available replays, others maintain that the on-field decision is final. The incident has sparked outrage among some England supporters, highlighting the significance of each decision in high-stakes Test matches.