Ben Stokes fumbles catch of Steve Smith while celebrating, Australia need 146 runs to win Ashes after Lunch.
In a crucial moment during the final Ashes Test, Australia’s Steve Smith received a significant reprieve when England’s Ben Stokes failed to hold on to a catch. Off-spinner Moeen Ali created the catching opportunity, and Smith, batting on 39, saw the ball bounce unexpectedly from a good length.
Stokes, positioned at leg-slip, leapt high in an attempt to catch the ball, but upon landing, he lost control of it and threw it towards the ground. Despite England’s review, the on-field umpire deemed Smith not out, and the TV umpire, Nitin Menon, confirmed the decision, citing Stokes’ lack of control during the catch attempt. The incident occurred on day five of the match during Australia’s challenging 384-run chase against England.
According to the Law, โThe act of making a catch shall start from the time when the ball first comes into contact with a fielderโs person and shall end when a fielder obtains complete control over both the ball and his/her own movement.โ
After the 1st session of the last Ashes Test England now needs 7 Wickets and Australia require 146 in 70 overs, to win Ashes after a long time in England’s Home.