Shubman Gill was at the receiving end of a poor decision from Richard Kettleborough [Source: AP]
In the aftermath of a contentious moment during the World Test Championship (WTC) final at The Oval, Indian pacer Mohammed Shami expressed his belief that third umpire Richard Kettleborough should have exercised more patience in reaching a verdict regarding the legitimacy of Cameron Green's catch.
The incident occurred on Day 4 of the WTC final when Indian opener Shubman Gill was dismissed for 18 after he was caught by Green off the bowling of Scott Boland. Following Gill's attempt to prod at a delivery outside the off stump, the ball sailed towards the gully region, prompting Green to swiftly dive to his left and assert a successful catch.
Gill, maintaining his stance, challenged the decision but was eventually forced to depart the field in dismay as the third umpire, Kettleborough, deemed the catch legal.
Shami said that in a high-stakes event like the WTC final, more careful consideration should have been given to the controversial catch incident. He suggested that a thorough examination, including zooming in on the footage, would have been appropriate. Despite his concerns, the fast bowler acknowledged that such incidents are an inherent part of the game.
"Yes, one could have taken some time, it's the World Test Championship final, not a normal match that you let go. It should have been checked better, zoomed in, but it's okay, it's a part of the game," said Shami.
When asked about his thoughts on the situation, Shami downplayed its significance, emphasizing that the final decision lies with the umpires. He maintained that the players do not dwell excessively on such matters.
“Nothing much. The umpires take a call. We don't think too much. Let's see tomorrow [Sunday] what happens,” added the veteran bowler.
After being set a daunting target of 444 runs for victory in the WTC final, Gill, along with captain Rohit Sharma had commenced the innings brightly, stitching a 41-run partnership for the opening wicket in a mere 7.1 overs. However, Green's controversial catch put an end to the young opener's stay at the crease.
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