Ashes 2021-22: That’s Just Pathetic Officiating As Far As I’m Concerned – Ricky Ponting On Third Umpire Not Calling Out No-balls Bowled By Ben Stokes

Updated - 09 Dec 2021, 11:44 AM

Ricky Ponting. Image- Twitter

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In the first Ashes, 2021-22 Test between Australia and England star all-rounder Ben Stokes bowled 14 no-balls in the first session but just one was called out on-field in which he dismissed David Warner and legendary Australia captain Ricky Ponting has slammed the “pathetic officiating”.

Star Australian opening batsman David Warner was given a reprieve on Day 2 of the Gabba Test when he was dismissed by Ben Stokes off a no-ball. Notably, Stokes was able to castle Warner when he was batting at just 17. However, the replay showed that Stokes had overstepped and the no-ball was called out and opener Warner survived.

Also, on Channel 7’s coverage, it was pinpointed that Stokes bowled 3 consecutive no-balls leading up to Warner’s dismissal and only the ball in which Warner got out was given as no-ball.

Notably, the on-field umpires are no longer responsible for checking no-balls as the third umpire keeps an eye out for bowlers overstepping.

Ricky Ponting Slams “Pathetic Officiating”

Meanwhile, legendary Australian captain Ricky Ponting, was furious at this mistake by the third umpire and he said:

“If someone upstairs is supposed to be checking these and they haven’t decided that any of those are a no-ball, that’s just pathetic officiating as far as I’m concerned.”

“It led to what we saw late in the over. If he’d have been called for a no ball the first one he bowled, then of course he’s going to drag his foot back. I’m not sure what’s happened. I’m keen to hear why it hasn’t happened earlier.”

Also, speaking on Channel 7, former Australia bowler Trent Copeland said:

“If you don’t know this is happening [as a bowler] and the review only happens when a wicket falls, I feel like we’re being failed by technology that could be used.”

Former umpire Simon Taufel also gave his opinions on this matter and said that umpires are supposed to check every bowl and he was not sure why they didn’t check it in the Gabba Test. He said:

“According to the playing conditions and technology process they are supposed to be checking every ball. I really can’t explain as to why they weren’t [checked]. They do have the support of an ICC technician in that third umpire’s box.”

“Together with that technician they’re supposed to be looking at every ball and if it’s close, they’ll examine it and call it.”

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