Ravichandran Ashwin bit his lip but struggled to hide India’s frustration at a controversial decision from third umpire Simon Fry during the fourth Test.
Ashwin compiled a 65-run partnership with Bhuvneshwar Kumar on day four, when the tourists’ tail finally wagged to reduce Australia’s first-innings lead to 97 runs.
It could have been even better had Kumar not been given out in contentious circumstances, with the on-field umpires asking for Fry’s assistance.
Replays were seemingly inconclusive as to whether the ball scraped the pitch en route to Shane Watson at first slip.
Kumar accepted the decision and trudged off the SCG field, as Ashwin sought an explanation from umpires.
“I could say something and end up in a lot of trouble, but I don’t want to do that,” Ashwin said, when asked for his take on Fry’s verdict.
“It could have hit the ground and gone (to Watson), but the umpire’s decision is final.
“I’ve been told that – even while playing gully cricket back home. So I respect that and stick to that.
“But having said, I find my teammate very unlucky.”
Ashwin’s feelings were mirrored by retired express paceman Brett Lee, who was calling the game for the Nine Network.
“You can’t give the batsman out on that, no way,” Lee said.
“You’ve got to give the batsman the benefit of the doubt.
“I feel very sorry for Kumar.”
Kumar did enjoy some luck in his knock of 30, with Joe Burns putting down a catch at short leg when he was on zero.
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