Despite an outstanding innings of 155 by English captain Ben Stokes, England lost the second Ashes Test to Australia by 43 runs. In an unexpected turn of events, Jonny Bairstow was stumped by Australian wicketkeeper Alex Carey, creating an enthralling moment.
Bairstow sauntered out of his crease in the 52nd over of the game, believing the ball was dead. However, Carey was shy at the stumps, and the batter was ruled out by the third umpire. Bairstow had no intention of running when he ducked the final delivery of Cameron Green’s over and moved towards Stokes at the non-striker’s end.
The incident sparked a debate, to which English Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has also contributed. Sunak, an avid cricket fan, believes that Australia’s controversial dismissal of Bairstow violated the essence of cricket. The official spokesperson for the Prime Minister verified Sunak’s support for the sentiments expressed by England captain Stokes regarding the incident.
“The Prime Minister and Ben Stokes are in agreement. He stated that he would never want to win a game the way Australia did, according to the Irish News, which cited a spokesperson.
Moreover, he praised Stokes’ exhilarating performance in the game, noting that it demonstrated his exceptional abilities. The Prime Minister expressed confidence in the English team’s capacity to rebound at Headingley despite the loss. When asked if he believes Australia’s actions are against the ethos of cricket, his spokesperson responded unequivocally, “Yes.”
Sunak also commented on the altercation that occurred in the Lord’s Long Room between a few elderly MCC members and Australian openers David Warner and Usman Khawaja, who were both “verbally abused,” according to Cricket Australia’s complaint. Notably, three MCC members have been suspended as a result of the incident.
The spokesperson verified that Sunak believes it is appropriate for the MCC to suspend any member accused of poor behaviour.
Meanwhile, Australia’s victory gave them a commanding 2-0 advantage in the five-match Ashes 2023 series. Beginning on July 6, the third Test of the series will be contested at Headingley in Leeds.
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