Emotions ran high in Bengaluru where India and Australia were tangled in a tense battle to win the second Test of a four-match series. Australian players have had a history of putting umpires under pressure to win games. Whether claiming a dropped catch or not, walking back even after edging the ball.

Umesh bowled a grubber and trapped Smith in front of the wickets. Umpire Nigel Llong immediately upheld a loud appeal by India. However, before walking off, Steve Smith in the process of asking Handscomb whether he should review it, also seemed to be seeking guidance from the dressing room.

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Things got heated when Smith looked up at the dressing-room for help with the referral. Umpire Nigel Llong immediately took stock of the situation and stopped him. “You can’t do that mate,” he chirps as Smith makes his walk back to the pavilion.

What Happened?

Initially, Smith didn’t look keen on the review. But then he was looking at the dressing room to try and figure out if he needs to go for the review. This is completely against the laws of cricket and not within the spirit of the game. According to rules, players are not allowed to seek external help – they are only allowed to consult their batting partners at the other end. Virat Kohli was furious with Smith’s attempt to bend the rules and the Indian captain rushed to the umpires. Umpire Nigel Llong and Skipper Virat Kohli was not too happy with that.

The delivery didn’t rise as it landed on a fuller length and just scooted on to smack Smith plumb in front of his wickets. He knew it right away, but wanted to take his chances. Smith walked off the field but Kohli was still angry with what his Australian counterpart tried to do. Australian commentators on air for Star at the time of the incident said Smith may not have been aware of the rules.

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How this affects the relationship between the player for the rest of the series remains to be seen.