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'I Knew Straightaway That..', Usman Khawaja Reacts To Controversial 'Ball Change' Incident in Oval Test

image-lksgcjkgUsman Khawaja had a prolific run in the Ashes 2023 [Twitter]

Australia opener Usman Khawaja raised concerns about the crucial ball change in the middle of the fourth innings on Day 5 of the fifth Ashes Test at the Kia Oval.

The incident happened during the 37th over of Australia's second innings when Khawaja was struck on the helmet by a delivery from England's Mark Wood. The impact was so severe that it reportedly altered the shape of the ball, leading the umpires to replace it.

This decision sparked a debate among cricket fans and experts, with former captain Ricky Ponting calling for a proper investigation.

In Australia's pursuit of the record 384-run target, Khawaja (72) and David Warner (60) showcased a formidable opening partnership, amassing 140 runs for the first wicket, signalling a hopeful path to victory. Nevertheless, the English bowlers capitalized on the unexpected ball change during the morning session on Day 5, ultimately dismissing Australia for 334 runs.

"As soon as they changed that ball, I knew straight away that ball was very different. I went up to (umpire Kumar Dharmasena) and asked, 'How old is this ball? It feels like it's eight overs old.' You could see the writing on both sides, and it hit my bat so hard. I've opened the batting in every single innings this Ashes series, and I haven't felt a ball hit my bat as hard as that ball. I said to the boys coming in, 'Be careful, this new ball is going to be tricky,”  Khawaja told Channel 9.

He further expressed that certain things in the game are beyond their control, and the ball change proved disappointing as they felt they had a strong grip on the match. He noted that even after 90 overs, the ball was still moving significantly, which disadvantaged them.

“Some things you can’t control in this game, and it’s disappointing for us because it felt like we had a real stranglehold on that game. That ball was at 90 overs and it was still hooping around corners and the keeper’s taking it above his head. It really hurts you. England is a class bowling attack, and if you give them a little inch, they will always get as much out of it,"  the batter added.

The debate surrounding the ball change has sparked interest and discussion in the cricketing community, with fans and experts eagerly awaiting further developments in response to Ponting's call for an investigation.