Controversy erupted at The Oval on Sunday as play was called off early on Day 4 of the fifth Test between India and England, despite the weather clearing up and daylight remaining. With the series on the line and the match delicately poised, former cricketers and commentators Nasser Hussain and Dinesh Karthik expressed sharp disappointment over what they called a “lack of common sense” from the match officials.
The decision to declare stumps early triggered frustration among players, fans, and experts alike. England were within striking distance of a memorable win, requiring just 35 runs with four wickets in hand while chasing 374. The weather had briefly interrupted the day, but light and playability had reportedly returned yet the umpires chose not to resume play.
What Exactly Happened?
With the series tied at 2–2, the fifth Test at The Oval was set up for a grandstand finish. England’s middle-order batters Joe Root and Harry Brook led a spirited chase, adding a 195-run partnership. At stumps on Day 4, England were 339/6, needing just 35 more runs for victory. The match was building toward a thrilling conclusion, but rain halted play briefly in the evening.
When the rain stopped and conditions appeared suitable for play to resume, umpires Ahsan Raza and Kumar Dharmasena chose to call stumps early. Reports suggested there were 40–45 minutes of play still possible, which could have swung the result in either team’s favor. Given the excitement, high stakes, and crowd attendance, the decision baffled many.
The Reactions: “Common Sense Was Missing”
Former England captain Nasser Hussain, now a commentator with Sky Sports, was among the first to criticize the move.
You had about 42–43 minutes to play. This is the sort of series that deserved a finale,” said Hussain. “A little bit of common sense could have made all the difference.
Dinesh Karthik, former India wicketkeeper-batter and also part of the Sky Sports commentary team, echoed similar sentiments.
I agree the rules are the rules, but there should’ve been a discussion with the teams. You owe it to the game and the fans. There was enough time and light left,” Karthik said.
Even Stuart Broad, former England pacer and now a pundit, called the move “lazy,” suggesting that match officials failed to consider the larger context of the game.
What Do the Rules Say?
According to the ICC’s Standard Test Match Playing Conditions (source), umpires have the authority to extend play by 30 minutes at the end of a day if a result is likely. This clause exists precisely to allow more play when matches are heading for tight finishes.
Critics argue that this extension should have been applied here. The crowd was still present, players were ready, and the result was imminent. However, the umpires appeared to be guided solely by the earlier rain and not the improving conditions.
The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), which oversees the Laws of Cricket, also allows umpires discretion to act in the interest of the game when light and weather permit. Many believe that discretion was underused in this case.
Fans Left Frustrated
The abrupt end left thousands of fans at The Oval disappointed. Many had braved erratic weather and queued up for what was expected to be a nail-biting climax to a closely contested series.
Social media was soon flooded with criticism of the decision. From cricket forums to mainstream outlets, the sentiment was unanimous this Test deserved more.
India’s Late Surge and England’s Grit
Before the rain, India had mounted a spirited comeback. After Root and Brook’s dominating partnership, the Indian pace attack particularly Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna claimed four quick wickets to bring India back into the match.
With pressure mounting and an electric atmosphere in the stadium, the match was perfectly poised. Calling off play at such a moment felt, to many, like robbing cricket of its drama.
What’s Next?
Day 5 promises a tense finish. England still need 35 runs, while India must take four wickets. The forecast suggests clear skies, and barring any unusual interruptions, cricket fans might still witness a thrilling end.
However, the controversy over Day 4 will likely remain a talking point. With so much at stake — pride, history, and trophies — many believe better judgment should have prevailed.
In Summary
- Match: 5th Test, England vs. India, The Oval
- Series Status: Tied 2–2
- Current Situation: England 339/6, chasing 374
- Day 4 Outcome: Stumps called early despite playability
- Public Reaction: Frustration from commentators, fans, and players
- Key Quotes: Hussain – “Series deserved a finale,” Karthik – “Use some common sense,” Broad – “Lazy decision.”
Further Reading
Cricket, a sport often ruled by traditions and regulations, also thrives on moments of thrill and unpredictability. On Sunday, those moments were cut short not by rain or darkness, but by rigidity. As the world looks to Day 5, the hope is that the match will find its worthy finish one not decided by the clock, but by courage, skill, and fair play
Nand Kishor is a content writer covering business, economy, and world affairs. With a background in journalism, he focuses on clear, ethical, and insightful reporting. Outside of work, he enjoys chess, cricket, and writing short stories.
