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NEW DELHI: The Ashes 2025–26 series witnessed another controversy on Day 2 of the third Test in Adelaide as the Decision Review System once again came under intense scrutiny.
Jamie Smith incident triggers uproar
The flashpoint came when Pat Cummins bowled a sharp short delivery to England wicketkeeper batter Jamie Smith. The ball appeared to brush Smith’s glove before striking his helmet and looping towards first slip.
Despite visible glove movement on replays, the Snicko graph remained completely flat. When the decision was referred upstairs, third umpire Chris Gaffaney ruled it not out, a call that left the Australia camp visibly frustrated.
Starc vents frustration on technology
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The confusing call led to an emotional reaction from Mitchell Starc, who was heard speaking on the stump microphone. “Snicko needs to be sacked. That’s the worst technology there is,” Starc said, reflecting the growing anger over repeated inconsistencies during the match.
Australia tighten grip on the Test
Australia continued to assert control over the match. At stumps on day two, the hosts held a commanding lead of 158 runs, with England left reeling with only two wickets in hand.
Ben Stokes stood firm with a gritty 55, while Jofra Archer provided brief resistance with 30. However, Australia need just two more wickets to wrap up the innings and move firmly towards a decisive advantage in the third Test.
