In a rare moment of mirth on a frustrating day for India, Ravindra Jadeja turned into a leg-umpire for a stumping appeal, calling for a “review” and signalling “out”, during day two of the India-Australia Ahmedabad Test.
The day had limped along for the hosts without much success, as Usman Khawaja and Cam Green combined for Australia’s first 200-run partnership in India since 1979. Khawaja went past his 150, and Green collected his maiden Test ton, with the first session proving to be a challenging outing for India’s bowlers.
Through the frustrating phase, India found ways to entertain themselves. When Ashwin slid a ball through the leg side in the 127th over, Green tried to flick it but missed. Wicketkeeper KS Bharat flicked off the bails in a stumping attempt and turned around in a half-hearted appeal towards the leg-umpire.
There was no leg-umpire though [Richard Kettleborough had stationed himself on off side]: Jadeja, stationed at square-leg, decided to take up the responsibility instead. Acknowledging the appeal, Jadeja “signalled” for an umpire review, and instantly signalled “out”.
With little credit to Jadeja, India did find a breakthrough three overs later. Green tried to sweep Ashwin but only ended up gifting a catch behind to Bharat. It was India’s first breakthrough in 60 overs.
Watch Jadeja turn into leg-umpire here:
India players trying to become square leg umpire to get a wicket. Still can’t get Cam Green out @FoxCricket #cricket #INDvsAUS pic.twitter.com/uz7VrUYq9z
— Brad Mellington (@BradMellington) March 10, 2023