Australian legends unhappy with ICC's explanation for ball-change controversy in 5th Ashes 2023 test

ICC has issued clarification on the ball-change controversy happened in the fifth Ashes 2023 test at The Oval.

The recently concluded Ashes 2023 was full of drama, action, and controversies. From Jonny Bairstow’s run out to Ben Stokes’s catch, there were multiple talking points around the Ashes to gather the eyeballs. The final Ashes 2023 test at the Oval also saw a few controversial decisions being made on the ground attracting former cricketers’ disagreement. 

Now, Ricky Ponting and Glenn McGath have indirectly lashed out at ICC’s explanation of the situation. On day 5 of the fifth Ashes test at The Oval, the ball change in Australia’s chase became a bigger issue and a game-changing one for England. Australia put forth their reservations as they thought the ball replaced for being out of shape in the 35th oval was shinier and harder than it should have been. 

Ball change brought swing in offer for England and soon after that, Australia were two down. Both, David Warner and Usman Khawaja were back in the hut against Chris Woakes. Woakes got big movement and swing to make them struggle. ICC came out with an explanation of the situation. 

ICC’s explanation on the rule

ICC spokesperson said, “The ICC does not comment on the decision taken by the umpires in matches. We can, however, confirm that all balls are pre-selected before the start of every match and when the situation calls for it, the match officials choose the balls that are closest to the condition of the ball that is being replaced”. 

Australian legends not satisfied

Australian legends were not happy with ICC’s explanation, Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting said, “The biggest concern I have is the big discrepancy in the condition of the ball that was chosen to replace the one that was out of shape. There’s no way in the World you can even look at those two balls there and say in any way are they comparable”. 

Former Australian pacer Glenn Mcgrath said, “I must say, and It is not the reason England won, the fact the umpires changed a 37-over ball on day four for one that looked like it had been used for no more than 15 overs has to be looked into. That should not happen, but ultimately, the wait for a first Ashes series win in the UK since 2001 goes on for another four years”. 

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