Gautam Gambhir Slams ‘Sledgers’ After Bairstow Controversy

The dismissal of Jonny Bairstow during the second Ashes Test has sparked controversy and raised questions about the “spirit of the game.”

Bairstow was run out by Australian wicketkeeper Alex Carey after he mistakenly believed the ball was dead.

As Bairstow wandered outside the crease, Carey quickly threw the ball back onto the stumps, resulting in a run out.

While this was within the rules, it ignited a debate about fair play, with some criticizing Australia’s tactics.

Former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir expressed his frustration with the situation, questioning those who criticized the decision and labeling them as “sledgers.”

Gambhir tweeted, “Hey sledgers… Does the spirit of the game logic apply to you or is it just for Indians?“

The term “sledgers” refers to individuals who engage in sledging in the context of cricket. Sledging is a practice where players use verbal tactics to distract, intimidate, or provoke their opponents during a match.

It involves the use of taunts, insults, or provocative comments aimed at unsettling the opposing team or individual players. It is believed that it goes against the spirit of fair play and respect for opponents.

The term “sledgers” is used to describe those players who frequently engage in sledging or employ verbal tactics on the field.

It is often used in a critical or negative context, suggesting that the individuals prioritize winning at all costs over fair play and sportsmanship.

Gambhir’s tweet brought back memories of a similar incident involving Ian Bell during a Test match between India and England in 2011.

Bell had mistakenly left his crease, assuming the ball had gone for a boundary. However, the ball was still in play, and he was given out after the bails were taken off. This incident had also sparked controversy and was seen as against the spirit of cricket.

Surprisingly, during that match, the Indian team withdrew their appeal after the tea break, and Bell was allowed to continue batting.

This gesture was applauded by the crowd, and Bell received a warm reception when he returned to the field.

The current debate raises questions about the consistency in applying the “spirit of the game” principle.

Gambhir pointed out instances where England players, such as Ben Stokes’ controversial dive in the 2019 World Cup final and Stuart Broad’s failure to walk after edging the ball, had faced little scrutiny or criticism.

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Bairstow’s dismissal was a big turning point in the game. England couldn’t recover and lost. The decision caused a lot of controversy, and people are talking about fair play, sportsmanship, and the spirit of the game.