England vs India: Umpire Paul Reiffel is the new Steve Bucknor for Indian cricket team?

Umpire Paul Reiffel came under fire from fans and cricket experts alike for a series of questionable decisions during Day 4 of the Lord’s Test between India and England. The Australian official, known for his experience and calm demeanor, appeared to falter under pressure, with several key calls going against India—most notably during their crucial fourth-innings chase of 193 runs. One of the most talked-about moments came late on Day 4, when Indian captain Shubman Gill was adjudged caught behind off a delivery from Brydon Carse. The ball was full and appeared to miss Gill’s bat entirely, going through clean to wicketkeeper Jamie Smith.

Despite the lack of clear evidence of contact, England appealed vociferously, and Reiffel quickly raised his finger, ruling Gill out. Gill reviewed the decision immediately, and UltraEdge confirmed there was no spike as the ball passed the bat, resulting in the decision being overturned. While the DRS saved Gill on this occasion, the incident sparked outrage on social media, with many fans accusing Reiffel of showing poor judgment during a critical phase of the match. With India already under pressure chasing a tricky target, these umpiring errors added to the tension of an already dramatic Test match.

An animated and visibly frustrated Shubman Gill wasted no time in challenging his dismissal on Day 4 of the Lord’s Test, immediately signaling for the Decision Review System. Replays confirmed his instincts were right—the ball from Brydon Carse had clearly missed the bat by at least an inch or two. The UltraEdge technology showed no spike, and the on-field decision was overturned, much to the relief of the Indian dressing room.

However, this was just one of several controversial calls by umpire Paul Reiffel that stirred up tensions. Earlier on Sunday, during England’s first innings, Mohammed Siraj appealed for an LBW decision against Joe Root, which was turned down by Reiffel. At the time of impact, Root had shuffled across his crease and was struck in line, with both off and leg stumps clearly visible. India reviewed the decision, hoping for a much-needed breakthrough.

Ball-tracking showed the delivery would just clip the leg stump, invoking the dreaded 'umpire's call' and letting Root off the hook. He had danced down the track in an attempt to negate any seam movement, and it worked in his favor. Gill and Siraj were visibly stunned, with Siraj punching the air in frustration as India battled mounting pressure and a stroke of bad luck.