Published By: Sanchari Das

Umpire Richard Kettleborough in Action for the India-Bangladesh Test: Revisiting His Most Controversial Calls

The first test began on September 19, 2024, with India looking to secure a crucial win on home soil

Richard Kettleborough is officiating the first test between India and Bangladesh at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai alongside Rod Tucker. This two-match Test series is part of the ICC World Test Championship and holds significant importance for both teams as they vie for a spot in the final. The first test began on September 19, 2024, with India looking to secure a crucial win on home soil.

Kettleborough's role as an umpire has been under the spotlight due to his previous controversial decisions, which have often sparked debates among players and fans. His experience and meticulous approach to decision-making are crucial in high-stakes matches like this one, where every call can impact the game's outcome. Here are some of his most notable controversies:

ENG vs. PAK

In the 2020 test match between England and Pakistan at the Rose Bowl in Southampton, Richard Kettleborough, one of the on-field umpires, became embroiled in a controversy when he was seen wearing a smartwatch during the first session. Realising the mistake, he immediately removed the smartwatch and reported the incident to the ICC's anti-corruption unit (ACU). After speaking to Kettleborough, the ACU reminded him of the obligations under the Player and Match Officials Area Regulations (PMOA). Despite the violation, no action was taken against him. The ICC's vigilance reflects their continued effort to maintain the integrity of the sport.

IND vs. BAN

Virat Kohli's 48th ODI century led India to a seven-wicket victory over Bangladesh in the 2023 World Cup on October 20. With India needing just two runs and Kohli on 97, umpire Richard Kettleborough's decision to not call a wide delivery from Nasum Ahmed sparked social media buzz, suggesting even Kettleborough wanted Kohli to reach his century. Kohli eventually hit a six to complete his hundred. Recent changes influenced the decision on the wide ball in cricket laws. The MCC updated the rule in 2022, allowing umpires to judge wides based on where the batter was standing at any point since the bowler's run-up began.

IND vs. AUS

Controversy marred the 2023 World Test Championship final at The Oval when Cameron Green controversially dismissed Shubman Gill off Scott Boland's bowling. The decision was referred to third umpire Richard Kettleborough, who ruled Gill out due to insufficient evidence that the catch was clean. Many fans believed Green had grounded the ball. The dismissal gave Australia their first breakthrough after India's strong start. Earlier, Australia declared their second innings at 270/8, setting India a target of 444. Despite losing key wickets, India fought on, with Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane at the crease as India crossed the 100-run mark. In the end, Australia won the WTC final.

IND vs. NZ

In the 2016 Kanpur test against New Zealand, India's R Ashwin nearly reached his 200th test wicket when he trapped Ross Taylor in front of the stumps. However, umpire Richard Kettleborough denied the appeal, giving Taylor a lifeline. The delivery spun sharply and kept low, hitting Taylor's pad in front of the stumps. While replays suggested the ball would have hit the stumps, Kettleborough's decision was understandable as he could not access replays. Ashwin eventually achieved his milestone by dismissing Kane Williamson. At that moment, New Zealand struggled at 56-4, with Umesh Yadav's direct throw running out Taylor.

NZ vs. SL

In a 2015 test between New Zealand and Sri Lanka, DRS was scrutinised after Richard Kettleborough overturned an on-field not-out decision by umpire Paul Reiffel. Sri Lankan batter Udara Jayasundera was initially given not out after a supposed edge off Doug Bracewell's delivery was caught by BJ Watling. Despite no conclusive evidence from snicko or hotspot, Kettleborough ruled Jayasundera out based on a faint mark on the hotspot and an apparent deviation. The decision sparked criticism, as replays indicated the deviation occurred before the ball reached the bat. Sri Lanka's coach, Champaka Ramanayake, expressed concerns about the inconsistencies and errors within the DRS system.

AUS vs SA

Cricket Australia announced a review of third-umpire camera setups after a controversial decision in the 2023 SCG test against South Africa. Marnus Labuschagne edged Marco Jansen to slip, with Simon Harmer claiming a catch. The on-field umpires gave a soft out signal, but third umpire Richard Kettleborough ruled Labuschagne not out, concluding the ball hit the ground before being caught. Kettleborough's decision was based on sideline replays, while a frontline angle suggested otherwise. The CA CEO, Nick Hockley, noted the challenges in cricket broadcasting and expressed the need to reconsider providing third umpires with feeds from all broadcasters to ensure accurate decisions.