In a dramatic turn of events during the fifth day of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy match between India and Australia’s 4th Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Indian opener Yashasvi Jaiswal’s dismissal sparked a heated controversy. The decision made by third umpire Sharfuddoula Saikat has become the center of debate, with Indian fans expressing outrage and chanting “cheater, cheater” in the stands.
The Controversial Dismissal
Pat Cummins bowled a short delivery around the leg stump, targeting Jaiswal with a field set for the pull shot. The young Indian batter attempted the stroke but seemingly gloved the ball to Australian wicketkeeper Alex Carey, who dived forward to take the catch inches above the ground. The on-field umpires referred the decision to the third umpire for review.
Upon examination, third umpire Sharfuddoula Saikat ruled Jaiswal out, stating that the ball had indeed hit the glove. However, the snickometer, a technology used to detect sound from ball-to-bat contact, did not show any conclusive evidence of the ball brushing the glove. The absence of clear proof left Indian fans and commentators furious, with former cricketer Sunil Gavaskar criticizing the decision as “an optical illusion” and questioning the use of technology if it cannot provide certainty.
Who is Sharfuddoula Saikat?
Sharfuddoula Saikat, the man at the center of the storm, is the first Bangladeshi umpire to join the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) Elite Panel of Umpires. His appointment to this prestigious position in 2022 marked a significant milestone for Bangladesh cricket.
- Umpiring Career: Saikat has been officiating since 2006 and boasts an impressive resume, having umpired in 10 Tests, 63 One-Day Internationals (ODIs), and 44 Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is).
- World Cup Experience: He made history last year by becoming the first Bangladeshi umpire to officiate in a World Cup match, a moment he described as a “great honor.”
Despite his credentials, Saikat’s decision in the Jaiswal dismissal has drawn heavy criticism. Indian fans, who dominated the crowd at the MCG, booed loudly and chanted “cheater, cheater,” reflecting their displeasure with the umpire’s call.
