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India vs England: Massive social media outrage against Umpire Kumar Dharmasena

Kumar Dharmasena has sparked controversy after a moment during the fifth Test
Kumar Dharmasena has sparked controversy after a moment during the fifth Test (Credits: X)

Experienced cricket umpire Kumar Dharmasena has sparked controversy after a moment during the opening session of Day 1 in the India vs England Oval Test went viral on social media. The incident unfolded when England pacer Josh Tongue unleashed a fiery delivery aimed at Indian batter Sai Sudharsan. Though intended as a yorker, the ball ended up as a low full-toss — still a dangerous weapon — and struck Sudharsan hard, leaving him floored on the pitch. What followed raised eyebrows across the cricketing world. Dharmasena appeared to gesture toward a possible inside edge even before any formal appeal or third-umpire referral, prompting criticism from fans and pundits alike.

His early indication, caught on camera, quickly circulated online, with many questioning whether the umpire had overstepped his role or influenced the decision-making process prematurely. The viral moment has triggered a debate about umpire conduct and neutrality, especially in high-stakes Test matches. Critics argue that such gestures can cause confusion or even sway reviews. While Dharmasena is one of the most experienced umpires in international cricket and a former ICC Umpire of the Year, this incident has cast a shadow over his otherwise distinguished career. The ICC has yet to comment on the matter.

A controversial moment unfolded during the opening session of the Oval Test when England appealed for an LBW against India’s left-handed batter Sai Sudharsan. The delivery from Josh Tongue, a full toss gone wrong, struck Sudharsan low on the pads, prompting a loud appeal from the English fielders. However, after a brief discussion, England opted not to take a review. Moments later, TV replays confirmed a thick inside edge before the ball made contact with the pads, meaning the decision would have been overturned had the review been taken.

What sparked greater debate, though, was umpire Kumar Dharmasena’s conduct. In visuals now circulating widely on social media, Dharmasena is seen making a subtle gesture that appeared to indicate an inside edge — something umpires are not permitted to do under ICC rules before an official review is taken. His action has triggered considerable backlash online, with fans and analysts accusing him of overstepping his role and potentially influencing the fielding side’s decision.

While Dharmasena is one of the most experienced and respected umpires in international cricket, this incident has raised concerns about consistency in umpiring standards. The ICC is yet to release a statement addressing the controversy, but the moment has certainly reignited the debate around on-field umpire conduct.

Author Kuljyot Singh
Kuljyot Singh

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