Joe Root criticizes Gill over ball change incident
The third Test of the Anderson–Tendulkar Trophy at Lord’s saw a heated moment as Shubman Gill questioned the condition of the Dukes ball, sparking a strong reaction from England’s Joe Root. The issue began on Day 2, when India requested a ball change just 10.3 overs after receiving the second new ball. Gill and Mohammed Siraj were visibly upset with the replacement, claiming it felt completely different from the previous one.
The growing inconsistency of Dukes balls has been a talking point throughout the series, with both teams voicing concerns about the ball going out of shape too quickly. Jasprit Bumrah had just taken three wickets in 14 balls before the change, and India lost momentum afterward. England’s lower order took full advantage, as Jamie Smith and Brydon Carse helped the hosts cross the 350-run mark.
Root suggests ball change limits
Speaking after the day’s play, Joe Root, who scored a century, proposed a solution. He suggested that each team be allowed only three ball changes per 80 overs, similar to review challenges. He added that the size of the measuring rings should be regulated to avoid unnecessary replacements.
Root also emphasized the need for adaptability in Test cricket. He said that players should not make too much of a fuss when the ball condition changes, urging teams to focus more on skill than on complaining.
“It’s one of those things where if the ball goes out of shape, change it, but don’t make a big deal out of it,” Root said. “You’ve got to be skilful enough to adjust whether it swings more or less.”
Game balance and India’s reply
Root didn’t hold back in his criticism of India’s actions, saying constant complaints slow the game down unnecessarily. “You can’t keep asking and wasting time,” he remarked.
The Test match is finely poised at the end of Day 2. England posted 387 runs in their first innings, with Root reaching his 37th Test century. India ended the day at 145 for 3, with KL Rahul unbeaten on 53 and Rishabh Pant at the crease with 19 runs. India still trail by 242 runs as the contest heads into Day 3 with high expectations.
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