Ishan Kishan, India A: Australia A continued their impressive run as they defeated India A by seven wickets in a four-day unofficial Test match on Sunday. Chasing a target of 225 runs, Australia extended their innings by 139 runs for three wickets on the fourth day. NZ ‘A’ side Captain Nathan McSweeney (88 not out) and Beau Webster (61 not out) shared an unbroken partnership of 141 runs for the fourth wicket to give their team an easy win.

Day begun with controversy

The fourth day of the match started with a controversy over changing the ball. Indian players caught in a heated argument with umpire Shaun Craig on this matter. The umpire was heard saying that the ball was scratched due to which it was changed. Though Ishan Kishan clearly not impressed with this logic. For him, the decision to change the ball was ‘stupid’. Umpire Craig was heard explaining his decision to change the ball in the stump microphone. He was saying, ‘We are changing it. No more debate. Let’s start the game.’

Ishan Kishan argued with the umpire

Kishan, showing no sign to cool down, started argument with umpire. Indian star cricketer said, ‘So we are going to play with this ball… It’s a very stupid decision.’ Craig replied, ‘Sorry, you will be reported if you disagree. This is unfair treatment. We changed the ball because of your exploits.’

 

Cricket Australia later issued a statement, saying the ball had been replaced due to malfunction and that the two captains and team management were informed about it before the start of the fourth day’s play. Kishan will not be charged with dissent. Even though the ball was changed, Australia A were not awarded five penalty runs, as stated in Article 41.3.4 of the Code of Conduct. Under Cricket Australia’s Code of Conduct, the condition of the ball is a Level 3 offence. The second first-class game between the two teams will be played in Melbourne from Thursday.

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