Ishan Kishan Avoids Dissent Charge Despite Clash Over Ball Change Decision

Australia A vs. India A, Mackay Test

In a heated moment on the fourth day of the Australia A vs. India A match in Mackay, Ishan Kishan found himself embroiled in a disagreement with umpire Shawn Craig over a controversial ball change. Despite the exchange, Kishan will not face a dissent charge.

The incident occurred before the day’s first delivery when umpire Craig informed the Indian players that the ball had been changed due to scratches. The call raised concerns of possible ball tampering among the Indian team, although Cricket Australia (CA) later clarified that the change was due to "deterioration."

Craig’s remarks over the stump microphone—“You scratch it, we change the ball. No more discussion, let's play”—prompted an irritated response from Kishan, who argued, “So we are going to play with this ball…that's a very stupid decision.” The umpire warned him of a potential dissent report, stating, “Excuse me, you'll be on report for dissent. That’s inappropriate behavior.”

Under CA’s playing conditions, umpires can replace a ball without issuing a penalty if they suspect damage but lack certainty on how it occurred. According to CA regulation 41.3.4, if umpires jointly suspect the ball’s condition is inconsistent with normal wear, they can change it without the five-run penalty associated with confirmed ball tampering. The replacement should match the previous ball's wear and brand.

Three hours after the match, CA issued a statement explaining the ball change, stating, “The ball used in the fourth innings of the match was changed due to deterioration. Both teams' captain and manager were informed of the decision prior to the start of play. No further action is being taken.” Despite the tensions, no punitive action will be taken against Kishan.

Australia A captain Nathan McSweeney, who was batting when play resumed, mentioned he hadn’t observed any irregularities in the ball himself. McSweeney went on to make an impressive 88 not out, strengthening his claim for a potential spot in Australia’s Test squad. He built a solid 141-run fourth-wicket stand with Beau Webster, leading Australia A to a seven-wicket victory over India A.

With the win, Australia A showcased their strength as they successfully chased down the target set by India A, who struggled with early breakthroughs on the final morning. Sai Sudharsan’s six overs of spin reflected India A’s struggle to mount a defense against a strong batting lineup.

Notably, neither Kishan nor India A captain Ruturaj Gaikwad are in India’s squad for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy. However, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Nitish Kumar Reddy, and Prasidh Krishna will continue with the Test squad, ensuring some continuity after this hard-fought encounter.