Ball-tampering allegations rock India-A as umpires warn Ishan Kishan for showing dissent

The India-A side was accused of ball-tampering ahead of the start of the final day against Australia-A in Mackay. The on-field umpires also warned Ishan Kishan for showing dissent over the decision. The officials decided to change the ball used by the touring side following allegations of scratches on the ball.

Just before the fourth-day play of the 1st unofficial Test between India-A and Australia-A, the umpires were involved in a heated exchange with the visiting side, accusing them of tampering with the ball.

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When the umpire Shawn Craig informed the players of changing the ball, Ishan found himself in hot waters for calling this decision ‘stupid’. The stump microphone picked up the conversation between the official and the players, which goes,Craig said, "Scratch it, we change the ball...no more discussion, let's play."

Kishan replied, "So we are going to play with this ball…that's a very stupid decision."

Craig responded, "Excuse me, you'll be on report for dissent. That's inappropriate behaviour. Because of your actions, we changed the ball."

Meanwhile, Kishan, who made headlines late last year for taking an infinite break from cricket for personal reasons and later for not abiding by BCCI’s directives to play Ranji Trophy matches, was eyeing a comeback to the international circuit via this series. And now, following this incident, Ishan could be subject to facing a potential ban should he be found guilty of altering the ball's condition, per Cricket Australia’s code of conduct.

“Any action(s) likely to alter the condition of the ball which are not specifically permitted under Law 41.3.2 may be regarded as unfair,” the code of conduct states.

Australia-A beat India-A

Chasing 224, Australia-A completed the run chase with seven wickets remaining, thanks to an incredible 141-run stand for the fourth wicket between captain Nathan McSweeney and Beau Webster. While Webster remained unbeaten on 61 off 117 balls, hitting four fours, McSweeney pressed his case for Australia Test debut against India with a match-winning 88* off 178 balls, smashing nine fours.

The Australia-A captain, however, was present at the scene when the drama surrounding ball-tampering began but admitted not knowing enough about it.

"I was at the striker's end when the umpires said they'd changed the ball, I'm not sure what quite for, I didn't notice any change in the ball personally," he said.

Meanwhile, Test hopefuls from both sides failed to leave an impression during this game. Those concerned will get another chance to prove their mettle (in the 2nd unofficial Test) before the marquee Border-Gavaskar Trophy gets underway with the Perth Test in Perth on November 22.

(With inputs from agencies)