The Australian cricket team expressed their dissatisfaction with the third umpire’s decision to dismiss Marcus Stoinis in their 134-run defeat against South Africa in the World Cup. Both batter Marnus Labuschagne and coach Andrew McDonald stated that they will seek clarification from the ICC regarding the decision. Stoinis was given out caught behind in the 18th over after a review by South Africa showed a spike on the Ultra edge, indicating that the ball had touched Stoinis’ bottom hand. However, there was confusion over whether Stoinis’ top hand had also left the bat and if both hands were connected to the bat at the time.
McDonald, in his post-match comments, said, “In moments like these, you have to accept the umpire’s decision. I am certain that the ICC will provide an explanation regarding the dismissal.” Labuschagne, who was at the non-striker’s end during the incident, mentioned that the team would seek clarification since it is the World Cup.
He explained, “The umpires were also unsure of what was happening. They saw what we saw, so there wasn’t much clarity. From my perspective, it looked like his hand was off the bat and it hit the glove. Marcus and I were simply asking if they had checked that.” He further added, “They only checked the spike from the front angle. They didn’t zoom in for a close-up view like we did, which clearly showed a gap between the two gloves and the handle. However, I understand that the third umpire has access to bigger and clearer screens than I do while watching from the field on a pixelated screen.”
In addition to Stoinis, Steve Smith was also given out after a review by South Africa. The umpire had to change his decision after the ball tracking technology indicated that the ball was hitting the leg stump. McDonald acknowledged the importance of Smith and Stoinis in the team and commented, “Whenever Smith and Stoinis are present, there is always a chance. They are both quality players, and given the opportunity, they could have brought the match closer.”
(Note: This story has been syndicated and was originally not edited by NDTV staff.)