In one of the most unique moments in Test cricket, Australian batter Steve Smith decided to take a Decision Review System (DRS) even before the on-field umpire had even given him out. As the ball passed the outside edge and went through to the keeper, the visitors went up in a big appeal. Umpire Kumar Dharmasena had not yet signalled his decision. Smith was already signalling for a review with his arms raised and bat in hand. He was convinced the ball had brushed his pad. Only after Smith’s signal did Dharmasena raise his finger. Replays and the Real-Time Snicko technology showed no clear spike as the ball passed the bat.
The original decision was overturned and Smith survived. Commentators immediately called it a unique moment. Kerry O’Keeffe on Fox Cricket called it “a unique moment in Test cricket that a batter has gone upstairs before the umpire has made a decision.” The incident happened on Day 3 of the first Test between Australia and Bangladesh at Marrara Stadium in Darwin on 15 August. Australia were deep in trouble, chasing a big trail after being bowled out for 198 in their first innings and watching Bangladesh compile 426. Smith was looking well set when Bangladesh appealed for a catch behind. This video went viral on social media.
Steve Smith fails to capitalize on reprieve as Australia struggle on Day 3
Despite that excellent review from the Australian batter he failed to capitalise on the reprieve. Smith was batting in the 40s at the time of the review and went on to make 44 before falling caught-and-bowled to Mehidy Hasan Miraz later in the day. Australia finished Day 3 at 4-161 and still trailing by 67 runs, with Cameron Green and Alex Carey at the crease. The moment once again shows Smith’s reputation for sharp awareness and reading of the game. He has long been one of the most brilliant players when it comes to DRS. In this case, he anticipated the umpire’s decision and decided to review it even before the signal.
It was not Smith’s first tussle with DRS controversy in this match. On Day 1 he had survived a Bangladesh review for caught behind off Ebadot Hossain when on 7, later admitting he thought he had nicked it and that technology saved him. That earlier escape helped him top-score with 71 in the first innings. Bangladesh ended Day 3 on top and Australia have plenty of work to do if they want to make a comeback in this game. Smith was furious with himself after getting dismissed late in the day to off-spinner Mehidy Hasan.
