Drama unfolded on Day 3 of the fifth Test between India and Australia at the SCG as Virat Kohli, taking charge as the on-field captain in Jasprit Bumrah’s absence, taunted the Australian crowd with a cheeky sandpaper gesture. The act, which rekindled memories of the infamous “Sandpaper Gate” scandal, became the talking point of the day.
What is “Sandpaper Gate”?
For those unfamiliar, the Sandpaper Scandal was a dark chapter in Australian cricket. During a 2018 Test match against South Africa in Cape Town, Australian cricketer Cameron Bancroft was caught on camera using sandpaper to tamper with the ball. The act was orchestrated to gain an unfair advantage by altering the ball’s condition. Bancroft, along with then-captain Steve Smith and vice-captain David Warner, faced severe repercussions, including suspensions, fines, and worldwide criticism. The scandal left a permanent mark on Australia’s cricketing legacy.
Kohli’s digs at Australia
The moment unfolded shortly after Prasidh Krishna dismissed Steve Smith for just 4 runs, leaving him stranded at 9,999 career Test runs. As Smith walked back, Kohli, known for his aggressive style, mockingly gestured by pulling out empty pockets to imply he had no sandpaper with him. The crowd, divided between laughter and boos, was reminded of the scandal that still haunts Australian cricket.
India in command
With India holding a significant lead, Kohli’s antics added fuel to the fire. His sandpaper taunt wasn’t the first display of his charged presence on the field but was certainly the most talked about. The Indian bowlers, led by Prasidh Krishna and Mohammed Siraj, kept Australia under pressure, dismissing three key batters in quick succession.
Bumrah remains absent
Meanwhile, India continued to sweat over Bumrah’s fitness as the star pacer remained off the field due to a back spasm. Kohli’s energy as the stand-in captain ensured India maintained their intensity in his absence.
As the game progresses, Kohli’s mind games and India’s dominant performance have left both the Australian team and their fans unsettled. This Test is shaping up to be as memorable for its cricketing moments as it is for its off-field theatrics.
