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The Test rivalry between India and England is one of cricket’s most enduring battles. Both the nations have played countless memorable matches since their first encounter in 1932. Many of those encounters are laced with intense competition, emotional flare-ups, and heated controversies. Let's have a look at some of the most talked-about controversies during India vs England Test encounters...
Vaseline Ball-Tampering Allegations
England debutant John Lever faced accusations of using Vaseline-coated gauze to illegally polish the ball during the Delhi Test. His 10-wicket match haul (7/46 and 3/24) raised suspicions, but no punitive action followed despite umpire Judah Reuben's intervention. The controversy overshadowed India's innings defeat.
Sidhu-Azharuddin Clash
Navjot Sidhu abruptly left the England tour mid-series after enduring persistent verbal abuse from captain Mohammad Azharuddin. This unprecedented walkout exposed internal team divisions during India's transitional phase in Test cricket.
Jellybean Gate
England players scattered jellybeans near the crease while Zaheer Khan batted, triggering a heated exchange with Kevin Pietersen. The incident fuelled Zaheer's match-winning 5/75, securing India's first series win in England since 1986.
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Spats and Mind Games
Joe Root's aggressive throw at KL Rahul during the Chennai Test escalated tensions, requiring umpire mediation. James Anderson's public criticism of Virat Kohli's technique prompted R Ashwin's blunt retort: 'We don't listen to losers.' These exchanges highlighted the psychological warfare in England's 4-0 series loss.
Jadeja & Anderson Altercation
An off-field altercation between James Anderson and Ravindra Jadeja during the first Test at Trent Bridge in 2014, escalated into a formal complaint by India. Anderson was accused of pushing Jadeja in the pavilion corridor. However, no sanctions followed due to lack of evidence. But the controversy added fuel to a tense series.
