The ongoing Test series between West Indies and Australia at Kensington Oval has become controversial, mainly because of the WI vs AUS umpiring errors. Several doubtful decisions by third umpire Adrian Holdstock have started debates among players, coaches, and fans. These calls against the West Indies have taken attention away from the players and focused it on the umpiring. Here’s a breakdown of the major incidents that triggered the outrage:
Decision 1 – Shai Hope Controversial Catch Decision
During an important moment on Day 2, Australian keeper Alex Carey caught the ball, but replays showed it had touched the ground. Still, the third umpire ruled Shai Hope out caught behind. Adrian Holdstock gave it as a clean catch. This decision left Hope stuck on 48 runs and led to strong reactions from fans and commentators.
Decision 2 – Roston Chase Controversial Not-Out
Early on Day 2, Australian bowler Josh Hazlewood hit Roston Chase on the pads. The Australians appealed for LBW, but the on-field umpire said not out. On review, UltraEdge showed a spike just before the ball passed the pad, suggesting it touched the bat first. Even though the ball seemed to hit the pad first, third umpire Adrian Holdstock kept the on-field call as not out, and Chase continued batting.
Decision 3 – Travis Head’s Not-out
In Australia’s first innings, Shai Hope seemed to take a clean catch after Travis Head edged the ball. But once again, Holdstock ruled that the ball had touched the ground before reaching the gloves, and Head was allowed to continue.
Decision 4 – Roston Chase LBW Despite Possible Edge
West Indies captain Roston Chase, batting confidently on 44, was hit on the pad by Pat Cummins. UltraEdge showed a clear spike just before the ball reached the pad, which suggested a possible inside edge. Still, Holdstock ruled him out LBW. This shocked both Chase and his teammates.
Decision 5 – Cameron Green’s LBW
Later on Day 2, Cameron Green faced an LBW appeal. Replays showed the ball hit his pad before the bat, but Holdstock did not overturn the on-field not-out decision. Coach Daren Sammy, commentator Ian Bishop, and former all-rounder Carlos Brathwaite all showed clear frustration. The Barbados crowd also reacted angrily by shouting and booing. Bishop and Brathwaite strongly criticised umpire Adrian Holdstock for making repeated mistakes.
In conclusion, the WI vs AUS umpiring errors, especially from third umpire Adrian Holdstock, took the focus off the players and ruined what could have been a great Test match. These controversial decisions left West Indies players and fans frustrated and raised serious questions about how fair and accurate the decisions were. Greater accountability and improved use of technology are essential to restore confidence in the decision-making process.
