England captain Ben Stokes hands Steve Smith a massive let-off after he dropped one-handed catch while celebrating in yet another dramatic Ashes moment that left fans split
England were denied a crucial Ashes wicket when captain Ben Stokes dropped a one-handed catch when already celebrating.
In yet another moment that divided the opinion of cricket fans during a dramatic series, Stokes gave Australian batter Steve Smith a huge reprieve as the tourists pursued 384 for a 3-1 win.
But debate raged over whether Stokes was in control of the ball sufficiently to complete the catch before he dropped it to the turf.
It appeared that Stokes was about to throw the ball into the air in celebration of the prize wicket after it looped up off Smith’s gloves off Moeen Ali’s bowling and he grabbed it above his head.
It was given not out by umpire Joel Wilson, cutting loud celebrations short at The Oval, with Stokes appearing to accept he’d dropped it.
Former England captain Sir Alastair Cook said on Test Match Special: ‘Absolutely the right decision from the umpires, he didn’t have it under control to have the catch.’
More to follow.
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Post source: Daily mail