During Day 3 of the third Test between India and England at Lord’s, former India coach Ravi Shastri expressed strong frustration over the poor quality of the Dukes balls being used. In a surprising moment, five different balls were tested for shape and all failed to pass through the ring gauge used to check if a ball is still usable.
Speaking during commentary, Shastri said, “It’s hard to explain. What’s quite amazing is that they checked 5 balls there and five of them did not go through the ring, so why are they in the box in the first place?”
His comment highlighted the growing concern in the series, as frequent ball replacements have led to game delays and frustration for both teams. England captain Ben Stokes and Indian batter Rishabh Pant have also complained, saying the balls go soft quickly and don’t hold shape, making it tough for bowlers and slowing the match.
With the issue disrupting the flow of play, many are now calling for rule changes, such as allowing earlier ball replacements or improving ball quality checks before matches. The Dukes ball controversy has become a big talking point in this closely fought Test series.
IND Vs ENG, 3rd Test: Joe Root Sets New Test Record For Most Catches By A Fielder, Surpasses Rahul Dravid’s Tally
Joe Root delivered a moment of brilliance on Day 2 of the third Test between England and India at Lord’s, pulling off a breathtaking one-handed catch in the slips to dismiss Karun Nair and etch his name in Test cricket history. With the grab, Root registered his 211th catch in the format, overtaking Rahul Dravid as the non-wicketkeeper with the most catches in Test history.
The milestone moment came at a crucial time in the match. India’s KL Rahul and Karun Nair were stitching together a steady partnership, looking well set after putting on 61 runs. Jofra Archer had earlier provided an early breakthrough on his return to Test cricket, but England were struggling to find a second wicket until Ben Stokes drew an edge from Nair.
At 34, Root has long been one of England’s most dependable fielders, and this latest catch only solidifies his reputation. He had previously shared the record with Dravid, who took 210 catches in 164 Tests. Root surpassed the Indian legend in his 156th match.
With bat and in the field, Joe Root continues to shine as one of England’s all-time greats, and his record-breaking effort at Lord’s will be remembered as a classic moment in the storied rivalry between England and India.
