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Shubman Gill
India captain Shubman Gill could face disciplinary action from the ICC after a Code of Conduct violation during the opening day of the third Test against England at Lord’s Cricket Ground. The incident occurred when Gill expressed visible displeasure with the on-field umpires over their refusal to change the ball.
The quality of the Dukes ball has been under heavy scrutiny, with players increasingly frustrated by its rapid deterioration. The ball often loses its shape and becomes noticeably softer within 20 to 30 overs, severely limiting bowlers' effectiveness and prompting frequent debates on the field.
During England’s first innings, Gill formally requested a ball change, citing concerns about its condition. However, the on-field umpires rejected the appeal and instructed India to continue using the same ball. Although the fourth umpire appeared briefly with a potential replacement, no substitution was made. A visibly upset Gill engaged in a prolonged discussion with the umpire over the decision.
Gill had previously criticized the ball's quality after the second Test, noting that it forced captains into defensive strategies due to the lack of assistance for bowlers once the ball loses its shape early in the innings.
Meanwhile, the Dukes ball manufacturers have weighed in on the matter, suggesting that the ICC consider allowing teams to request a new ball between the 60th and 70th overs—well before the current 80-over threshold.
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“They expect the ball to last until the 79.5th over, but that’s simply not realistic,” a representative stated. “This isn’t a machine-made product where every unit is identical. Natural deterioration is part of the game, and we haven’t compromised our standards or processes in manufacturing.”
As tensions rise over ball quality and on-field fairness, Gill’s actions may now bring him under the ICC’s disciplinary spotlight.