Shubman Gill risks ICC ban after Code of Conduct violation in Lord's

Team India captain Shubman Gill argued with the on-field umpire regarding a ball change during the opening day of the third Test against England at Lord's Cricket Ground on Thursday, July 10. Shubman Gill appeared dissatisfied with the condition of the ball and expressed his displeasure before the game resumed.

The Dukes ball has been a major talking point due to ongoing concerns about its quality. Players have expressed frustration with the ball losing its shape and becoming softer after just 20-30 overs. It has led to multiple on-field disputes with the umpires, as bowlers are completely taken out of the game.

Watch: Shubman Gill Seen Arguing With Umpire During Lord’s Test

During the first innings of the ongoing Test, Shubman Gill requested a ball change due to concerns over its condition. However, the on-field umpires denied the request, instructing India to continue with the same ball.

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The fourth umpire briefly appeared with a replacement, but he was sent back without any change being made. Gill, who was frustrated with the decision, was seen engaging in a discussion with the umpire as it did not go in India's favor.

Watch the video of the same posted by a user on X (formerly known as Twitter) below:

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Following the second Test, Shubman Gill had already raised concerns about the condition of the Dukes ball. Gill added that when the ball loses its shape within 20 overs, it gives bowlers little assistance, forcing captains into a defensive mindset.

After Shubman Gill's Complaint, Dukes Manufacturer Defends Ball Quality

The Dukes ball manufacturers have stated that the ICC should consider allowing teams to change the ball between the 60th and 70th overs. They added that the ICC expects the ball to last up to 79.5 overs but admitted this may not always be realistic.

“Maybe the game’s authorities should consider allowing the new ball to be taken somewhere between the 60th and 70th over, instead of the current 80th-over rule. They somehow expect the ball to stay hard until the 79.5th over, which, I’m afraid, is not possible."

"The ball is not a machine-made product where every unit is identical. The ball is supposed to deteriorate; it’s not a rock. As far as we, the manufacturers, are concerned, the ball is not being made to fail. We have not lowered our standards or changed our processes,” said the official.

England Post 251/4 on Day 1 of the Lord’s Test

England opted to bat after winning the toss under clear skies. India retained their two-spinner strategy from the second Test. The Indian bowlers bowled with discipline in the opening session, with Nitish Kumar Reddy dismissing both openers, Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley, in a single over.

Joe Root and Ollie Pope rebuilt the innings with a 109-run partnership. However, Ravindra Jadeja dismissed Pope for 44 after tea, with substitute keeper Dhruv Jurel taking a brilliant catch behind the stumps. Jasprit Bumrah soon removed Harry Brook for 11.

However, Root, unbeaten on 99, and Ben Stokes, who ended on 39, ensured England closed the day at 251/4. India will hope the second new ball, just three overs old, helps them make inroads on Day 2.

Also read: High alert at Lord’s! Undercover guards launch tight security for India vs England 3rd Test