Steve Smith withdrew his appeal in an incident that brought back memories of the Jonny Bairstow controversy |courtesy - screengrab (JioHotstar)
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Steve Smith's actions were different to Pat Cummins
- Australia and Afghanistan shared points
- Jonny Bairstow was dismissed in a similar manner
The 2025 Champions Trophy clash between Australia and Afghanistan saw a major incident that reignited the spirit of cricket debate as Australia were involved in another incident similar to the controversial Jonny Bairstow in the Lord's Test during the 2023 Ashes.
On the last ball of the 47th over after Azmatullah Omarzai took a single from a Nathan Ellis delivery, Noor Ahmed was caught off-guard on the striker's end after completing the run. Before the ball was dead and the keeper received the ball from the fielder, Noor left the crease. Inglis was quick to notice the batter's mistake and dislodged the stumps and appealed for a run-out.
As per protocol, the umpires were set to ask the third umpire to review the incident. However, Steve Smith interfered at this moment and withdrew the appeal. It is worth noting that Noor was outside the crease when Inglis removed the bails and Smith decided to go ahead with the appeal, Australia would have got the wicket.
Smith's actions were notably different to the route Pat Cummins took at Lord's when Alex Carey stumped out Jonny Bairstow. However, it is worth noting that the incidents were slightly different as Bairstow was on strike and missed the delivery while Noor came to the crease from the non-striker's end. In both instances, it was the last ball of the over and both batters left the crease to have a discussion with their batting partner.
However, Smith's actions being completely different to Cummins' became a talking point on the internet with few also pointing out the incidents were different. The Australian captain's sportsmanship was also praised by many.
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Talking about the match, there was no result possible as the game was washed out and both teams shared points. This result has ensured Australia has joined India and New Zealand by qualifying for the semi-final.
The Smith-led side were favourites to win the game when rain stopped play as they made 109 runs and lost just one wicket in 12.5 overs while chasing a total of 274.
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