A Promising Start Cut Short
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy has never been short of drama, passion, and intensity. The 2025 edition of the iconic series lived up to its legacy, delivering moments that sparked discussions across the cricketing world. Among the most talked-about incidents of the series was the contentious DRS decision involving India’s young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal. The episode unfolded during the third Test between India and Australia, played at the picturesque Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamshala. What began as a promising innings turned into a moment of controversy, leading to questions about the consistency and accuracy of the Decision Review System.
The DRS Incident That Changed the Game
The incident occurred on the second day of the Test when Jaiswal, batting on a solid 63, looked well-set to convert his innings into a century. Having shown immense maturity and flair, he had kept the Australian pacers at bay and played spin with composure. It was in the 38th over of India’s first innings when Mitchell Starc delivered a ball that jagged back sharply. Jaiswal attempted a flick but was struck on the front pad. A loud appeal followed and the on-field umpire ruled him not out. Australia immediately opted for the DRS, and the drama began.
UltraEdge, Hawk-Eye, and a Divided Verdict
The replays showed the ball hitting Jaiswal’s front pad, but there was a slight murmur on UltraEdge as the ball passed the bat. The third umpire, after a brief inspection, concluded there was no bat involved. Hawk-Eye projected the ball clipping the top of the leg stump. With the umpire’s call in play, the decision was reversed and Jaiswal was declared out, leaving fans and former cricketers stunned.
Reactions and Aftermath
The dismissal became an instant talking point. Slow-motion replays and multiple angles were dissected by broadcasters and fans on social media. Many argued that the spike on UltraEdge occurred at the exact moment the ball passed the bat, suggesting a potential inside edge. Others pointed to inconsistencies in the technology and the lack of conclusive evidence to overturn the original decision. Former players like VVS Laxman and Michael Vaughan voiced their concerns, with Laxman stating that in such marginal cases, the benefit of doubt should always go to the batter.
A Pivotal Wicket
Jaiswal, visibly dejected as he walked off, did not display any signs of dissent but his frustration was clear. This wasn’t just any wicket—it came at a time when he was steering India into a dominant position in the match. His wicket triggered a mini-collapse, with India losing three wickets for 27 runs. Although India managed to recover later, the psychological impact of losing a set batter under dubious circumstances was undeniable.
The Ongoing DRS Debate
The larger issue raised by this dismissal is the recurring debate around the accuracy of DRS. While the system has improved decision-making significantly since its introduction, it is still not immune to controversy. The ‘umpire’s call’ in particular continues to frustrate players and fans alike. In Jaiswal’s case, many believed that the original not out decision should have stood, especially when the evidence was far from conclusive.
A Rising Star Deserved Better
Yashasvi Jaiswal, who had been in sublime form throughout the series, was denied a possible century in what could have been a match-defining knock. His performance until that point was a display of temperament, shot selection, and technique—qualities that have made him a rising star in Indian cricket. His ability to tackle pace and spin with equal confidence was on full show, and his dismissal not only broke the rhythm of India’s innings but also shifted momentum, albeit briefly, in Australia’s favor.
Looking Forward
As the series progressed, the controversy did not fade. Post-match discussions, expert panels, and even team management hinted at their dissatisfaction with the system’s inconsistency. Although the third umpire and match officials followed the protocols, the incident added to a growing list of DRS debates that cricket has witnessed over the years.
In the aftermath of the series, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) reportedly raised the issue with the ICC, seeking clarity and urging for enhancements in the DRS protocol, especially in high-stakes matches like the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Whether this leads to actual reforms remains to be seen, but what is certain is that Yashasvi Jaiswal’s controversial dismissal will be remembered as one of the key moments of the 2025 series.