As Team India faces off against New Zealand in the ongoing First Test at M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, former Indian coach Ravi Shastri shared a compelling anecdote about umpire Michael Gough. Reflecting on India’s tour of South Africa in 2017-18, Shastri revealed how the team strategically chose not to review Gough’s decisions due to his impressive track record.
“When I was the coach of the Indian team in South Africa in 2017-18, we decided not to review anything when a decision was given by umpire Michael Gough. When he was on a roll as an umpire, he hardly got anything wrong. No need to waste any reviews,” Shastri stated during commentary on Day 3 of the India vs New Zealand Test. Michael Gough is currently officiating in the First Test between India and New Zealand.
Gough’s Impact During the Series
Shastri’s comments highlight Gough’s outstanding performance during that series, particularly in the first Test at Cape Town. One notable moment occurred when he upheld a catch claimed by Rohit Sharma off Hashim Amla. Despite blurry slow-motion replays, Gough’s soft signal of “out” remained firm, showcasing his confidence in his judgment. This decision not only shifted momentum but also reinforced the players’ trust in his capabilities.
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Another pivotal moment came when Gough made a crucial LBW decision against Virat Kohli, who was trapped in front of the stumps by Philander. The ball-tracking technology confirmed that it would have hit leg stump, further solidifying Gough’s reputation for making accurate calls under pressure. Kohli’s dismissal was particularly significant, as it occurred when India needed stability at the crease.
In addition to these key moments, Gough also adjudicated Rohit Sharma’s dismissal when he was bowled by Philander. This incident further showcased Gough’s ability to make critical calls during high-pressure situations.
Continued Excellence in the Second Test
Moving to the second Test at Centurion, Gough continued to demonstrate his quality as an umpire. He upheld another LBW appeal against Kohli, who was struck on the pads by a delivery from Kagiso Rabada. The review showed that it was “Umpire’s Call,” reinforcing Shastri’s point about Gough’s accuracy and consistency in his decisions.
Shastri also noted how effectively Gough handled multiple reviews throughout that series, maintaining clear communication with players and ensuring that the spirit of the game was upheld. His decisions were generally respected by players from both teams, indicating his authority and understanding of cricket.
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