Former Australian captain Michael Clarke said that it was “unacceptable” if Australia were manipulating the Decision Review System in the Bengaluru Test in the manner alleged by Virat Kohli after the Test got over, reported The Age.
“I want to find out from the Australian team if they’re using the DRS in that way, if they are then that is unacceptable,” said Clarke to India Today, according to the The Age. “My concern and my worry is that when you look at the footage of what happened with Steve Smith, Peter Handscomb ... actually suggests to Steve Smith to turn around and have a look at the support staff.”
He added, “If it is only a one-off, I don’t think that would have happened. The fact that Peter Handscomb is even thinking about telling the Australian captain to turn around and look to the support staff, I’ve got my concerns.”
On Tuesday, captain Steve Sminth was declared leg-before-wicket during a crucial stage of the match. Smith looked at his teammate Peter Handscomb at the non-striker’s end asking whether to refer it or not. However, Smith then also looked at his teammates in the dugout asking whether to review the verdict. This infuriated Kohli, who lashed out at Smith during the post-match press conference after a splendid 75-run win.
After the match, Smith admitted that he was guilty and said that he had a “brain fade”. Unhappy by the explanation, Kohli said, “If someone makes a mistake while batting, for me that’s a brain fade. The way I left the ball in Pune that was a brain fade. If something is going on for three days that’s not a brain fade, as simple as that. I don’t want to say more on that. The videos are out there for everyone to see.”
As per the Laws of Cricket, a player is not allowed to consult the dressing room for any decisions taken on the field.
