Explore the most notorious cricket controversies that shook the cricketing world. From underarm bowling to ball-tampering scandals, discover the dramatic incidents that left a lasting impact on the gentleman’s game.

Cricket, often referred to as the “gentleman’s game,” is known for its spirit of sportsmanship and fair play. However, it has not been immune to controversies that have left fans and pundits stunned. From on-field clashes to off-field scandals, cricket has seen its fair share of drama over the years. In this article, we take a closer look at the top 10 cricket controversies of all time that have made headlines around the world.

Top 10 Cricket Controversies of All Time

1. The Underarm Incident (1981)

In one of the most infamous moments in cricket history, the Australian team, led by Greg Chappell, resorted to bowling underarm deliveries in a one-day international against New Zealand to prevent the Kiwis from hitting a six on the final ball. This unsportsmanlike act drew widespread condemnation and led to a significant change in cricketing rules.

2. The Ball-Tampering Scandal (2018)

During a Test match in South Africa, Australian cricketers Cameron Bancroft, Steve Smith, and David Warner were caught using sandpaper to alter the condition of the cricket ball. This scandal not only resulted in suspensions for the players but also damaged the reputation of Australian cricket.

3. The Monkeygate Incident (2008)

The Test series between India and Australia in 2008 was marred by allegations of racial abuse. Harbhajan Singh was accused of racially abusing Andrew Symonds, leading to a massive controversy that strained relations between the two teams.

4. The Chucking Controversy (1990s)

Several bowlers, including Pakistan’s Shoaib Akhtar and Sri Lanka’s Muttiah Muralitharan, faced accusations of illegal bowling actions. These controversies sparked debates on what constitutes a legal bowling action and the role of technology in adjudicating chucking.

5. The Spot-Fixing Scandal (2010)

In a shocking revelation, three Pakistani cricketers, Salman Butt, Mohammad Asif, and Mohammad Amir, were found guilty of spot-fixing during a Test match against England. They were caught deliberately bowling no-balls at predetermined moments, shaking the cricketing world.

6. The World Cup Riot (1996)

During the 1996 Cricket World Cup semifinal between India and Sri Lanka, a riot erupted at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, as frustrated Indian fans pelted the ground with objects after India’s poor performance. The match was awarded to Sri Lanka by default.

7. The Bodyline Series (1932–33)

The Ashes series of 1932–33 saw one of cricket’s most controversial tactics: bodyline bowling. England, led by Douglas Jardine, bowled aggressively at the bodies of Australian batsmen, leading to injuries and intense debates about the ethics of the game.

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8. The Oval Test Forfeit (2006)

In a first for Test cricket, the fourth Test between England and Pakistan at The Oval in 2006 was awarded to England after Pakistan refused to take the field following a ball-tampering accusation. The decision was a major talking point and raised questions about fair play.

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9. The Sri Lankan Bribery Scandal (1999)

Sri Lankan captain Arjuna Ranatunga alleged that the team had been offered bribes to lose matches during the 1999 World Cup. While no concrete evidence was found, the controversy tarnished the reputation of the sport.

10. The Umpire Decision Review System (UDRS) Debacle (2008)

The UDRS, introduced to reduce umpiring errors, has been a constant source of controversy. Questions about its accuracy and fairness have led to heated debates among players, officials, and fans, shaping the modern game.

These controversies have left an indelible mark on the history of cricket, serving as reminders that even the gentleman’s game can witness moments of intense drama and ethical dilemmas. While cricket continues to evolve, these incidents remain etched in the collective memory of fans and players alike.

Ball tampering in cricket

Ball tampering in cricket is a controversial and unethical practice where players attempt to alter the condition of the cricket ball to gain an advantage in swing or seam movement. This practice is considered a serious offense and a breach of the Laws of Cricket, as it undermines the integrity of the game. Ball tampering has received significant attention and condemnation in the world of cricket due to its potential to compromise fair play and sportsmanship. Here is an overview of ball tampering in cricket:

**1. Methods of Ball Tampering:

• Shining the Ball: Bowlers and fielders often use sweat and saliva to shine one side of the ball. This helps the ball to swing in the air. While this practice is legal and encouraged, excessive use of foreign substances is considered tampering.
• Scratching or Altering the Ball: Players have been known to use fingernails, sharp objects, or foreign substances like sandpaper to scratch or roughen one side of the ball. This can enhance the ball’s ability to reverse swing or seam unnaturally.

**2. Why Ball Tampering Occurs:

• Gain Unfair Advantage: Players may engage in ball tampering to gain an unfair advantage over the opposition. By manipulating the ball’s condition, they aim to achieve exaggerated swing, making it difficult for batsmen to play comfortably.
• Influence Match Outcomes: In some cases, ball tampering has been linked to an attempt to influence the outcome of the match, as it can drastically affect a team’s chances of success.

**3. Incidents and Controversies:

• One of the most notable incidents of ball tampering occurred in 2018 during a Test match between Australia and South Africa. Members of the Australian cricket team were caught using sandpaper to alter the ball’s condition. This led to suspensions, fines, and a public outcry.
• Other instances of ball tampering have been reported in various matches across the world, resulting in penalties for the players involved.

**4. Penalties and Consequences:

• Players found guilty of ball tampering face disciplinary action from the match referee, which can include fines, match bans, and suspension from international cricket.
• Teams may also receive penalties, including run deductions or forfeiture of matches, depending on the severity of the tampering.

**5. Preventing Ball Tampering:

• Umpires and match officials are responsible for inspecting the condition of the ball regularly during a match. If they suspect tampering, they can take appropriate action.
• Players are encouraged to maintain the ball’s condition within the limits allowed by the Laws of Cricket. Excessive use of foreign substances or roughening the ball unfairly is strictly prohibited.

**6. Integrity of the Game:

• Ball tampering is considered a breach of the spirit of cricket and fair play. It tarnishes the integrity of the game and undermines the trust and respect between players and teams.
• Cricket’s governing bodies, such as the International Cricket Council (ICC), take a strong stance against ball tampering to maintain the sport’s integrity.

Originally posted 2023-09-27 08:37:00.