Glenn McGrath Calls For Investigation After The 5th Ashes 2023 Test: Australian cricket legend Glenn McGrath has added his voice to the growing demand for an official investigation into the controversial ball change that occurred during England’s Ashes-tying victory over Australia at the Oval. This action has garnered scrutiny, particularly because Australia, who was aiming for its first Ashes series win in England since 2001, seemed to be in a commanding position with a score of 140-0 in pursuit of 384.
The English team appeared to be on the back foot on the fourth day, as they struggled to make inroads against the solid Australian batting line-up. However, the scenario drastically changed with a ball change at the start of the fifth day. This seemingly insignificant action had a significant impact, aiding the hosts to clinch three quick wickets.
The Australian chase was then steadied by a substantial 95-run partnership between Steve Smith and Travis Head. However, the team faltered after a rain delay and fell short by 49 runs. Images revealed that the old ball, deformed by a delivery from Mark Wood that hit Usman Khawaja’s helmet, was replaced with a newer and shinier ball. This incident led Ricky Ponting, the former Australian captain, to call for an investigation into the matter.
Supporting Ponting’s stance, McGrath echoed his sentiments, urging the International Cricket Council (ICC) to examine this incident closely. He admitted to BBC Sport, “I must say – and it is not the reason England won – the fact the umpires changed a 37-over-old ball on day four for one that looked like it had been used for no more than 15 overs has to be looked into.”
However, Glenn McGrath acknowledged that this episode was not the sole reason for England‘s victory. Still, he asserted, “That should not happen.” Despite the controversy, he noted, Australia’s wait to clinch an Ashes series victory on British soil since 2001 will continue for at least another four years.
Glenn McGrath has added his voice to the growing demand for an official investigation into the controversial ball change
England’s triumph was sealed by the legendary Stuart Broad, who claimed the last two wickets, thwarting Australia’s hopes of ending their Ashes drought in England. Adding a touch of drama to the occasion, Broad announced his retirement during the Test. His remarkable career, boasting 604 wickets in 167 matches, reached its conclusion, leaving an indelible mark on English cricket.
YOU MAY ALSO READ: Justin Langer Warns Australian Cricket Team After The Ashes 2023
The controversy surrounding the ball change and the impact it had on the game will linger in the minds of cricket enthusiasts for a while. Amid the celebratory send-off for Broad and the continued Ashes rivalry, the call for a thorough investigation underscores the importance of fair play in cricket and reinforces its position as the “gentleman’s game.”
