Southee Comments on On-Field Interactions

LONDON: England’s bowling consultant, Tim Southee, addressed the verbal exchange involving Indian captain Shubman Gill. Southee stated that India’s complaints regarding England’s approach at the end of the third day of the Test match are unwarranted, given India’s apparent time-wasting earlier in the game.

During the press briefing following the second day’s play, Southee advised the Indian team to refrain from expressing dissatisfaction about the incident.

“The animated exchanges towards the end are always an exciting element,” remarked Southee.

Southee expressed his confusion regarding India’s complaints, pointing out that the Indian captain was receiving a massage on the field during the match.

“I’m not sure why they are complaining when Shubman was lying down receiving a massage in the middle of yesterday’s play.”

He affirmed that such interactions are inherent to the sport and characterized the situation as a product of the moment.

“It’s clearly part of the game. It adds excitement to the conclusion.”

The comments follow a tense exchange between Gill and Zak Crawley in the closing stages of day three. Gill accused the England opener of intentionally wasting time to prevent India from bowling another over.

With only six minutes remaining, India aimed to bowl two additional overs. However, Crawley took over a minute to prepare after the umpires signaled play. He subsequently halted Bumrah’s run-up twice, citing his lack of readiness initially, and then due to movement behind the sight screen.

In the final over, Gill strongly urged Crawley to cease wasting time and confront the bowling with resolve. After Crawley was struck on the hand and requested medical attention, several Indian fielders approached him, heightening the tension.