During a Test match against Bangladesh, Australian batter Steve Smith sparked a commentary box debate after initiating a DRS review before central umpire Kumar Dharmasena had fully signaled his dismissal. As Dharmasena began raising his index finger following a loud appeal, Smith immediately motioned for a TV referral. The unusual gesture drew swift criticism from former Australian opening batter David Warner, who condemned the timing of the request on live commentary.
The On-Field Incident in the 14th Over
The moment unfolded in the 14th over of Australia's innings, with the scoreboard reading 40 for 2. Fast bowler Ebadot Hossain delivered a ball outside the off-stump, tempting Steve Smith into an expansive driving shot. An audible noise sounded as the ball passed the bat, prompting an enthusiastic appeal from bowler Ebadot Hossain and wicketkeeper Litton Das. Responding to the appeal, umpire Kumar Dharmasena started lifting his finger to declare Smith out. However, before the umpire could complete the signal, Smith preemptively formed the 'T' sign with his hands to demand a review.
The sudden intervention momentarily unsettled umpire Dharmasena, who appeared visually awkward before formally referring the decision to the television umpire. While players are entitled to challenge decisions, requesting a review before the on-field call is rendered represents a rare sight in international cricket.
David Warner Criticizes Early Review Gesture
Serving as an on-air commentator, former opener David Warner expressed strong disapproval of Smith's actions. Warner emphasized that while he supports the decision review system, interrupting the umpire's signal breaches standard match protocol. Warner remarked on-air, "The way Steve reacted, I didn't like that manner at all. You can't do that."
Fellow commentator Brendan Julian highlighted that Smith acted rapidly because he was completely convinced of his innocence. Nonetheless, Warner refused to back down, reiterating his stance that total conviction does not justify bypassing the umpire's formal decision process on the field.
Kerry O'Keeffe's Take and the Final Replay Verdict
Former Australian spinner Kerry O'Keeffe also found the situation highly peculiar, pointing out how uncommon such actions are in long-format cricket. O'Keeffe stated, "In Test cricket, this is a strange incident that a batter went for a review before the umpire gave his decision." He stressed the importance of allowing the central official to complete their administrative role without player interference.
Ultimately, the technology vindicated Smith's belief. Slow-motion replays and UltraEdge demonstrated that the ball had missed the edge of the bat entirely, and the sound heard by the fielders was produced by the bat striking the turf. Smith was declared not out and remained at the crease, though his premature signal triggered wide discussion regarding player etiquette.
