Monkeygate scandal: The scandal that shook cricket and tarnished Australia’s victorious streak

On this day in 2008, Australia triumphed over India with a commanding 122-run victory, marking their 16th consecutive Test win and equaling a historic record. Despite the impressive feat, the Sydney Test was marred by controversies surrounding questionable umpiring decisions and allegations of racial abuse. The match remains a highly contentious moment in cricket history, shining a light on the challenges and controversies that can arise in the sport.

Australia batted first, posting a formidable total of 463 runs. Andrew Symonds was instrumental in this innings, scoring an unbeaten 162, a feat later tainted by his admission of having edged a ball early in his innings—a fact unnoticed by the umpires.

In response, India amassed 532 runs, with Sachin Tendulkar scoring a masterful 154 not out. The match seemed poised for a draw until Australia's second innings declaration at 401 for 7, set India a target of 333 runs. The Indian batting lineup faltered, and were bowled out for 210, handing Australia a dramatic win in the final minutes of the fifth day.

Umpiring controversies

The match was marred by several umpiring errors that significantly impacted its outcome. Umpires Steve Bucknor and Mark Benson were at the centre of these controversies:

Andrew Symonds' edge: On 30, Symonds edged a delivery to the wicketkeeper, a dismissal opportunity missed by the umpires, allowing him to score a match-defining 162 not out.

Michael Clarke's non-dismissal: Clarke edged a catch to second slip but stood his ground. Later, he claimed a contentious catch to dismiss Sourav Ganguly, which was upheld by the umpires based on a pre-series agreement to trust the fielder's word.

Other errors: Multiple decisions, including a stumping opportunity against Symonds and several leg-before-wicket appeals, were adjudged incorrectly, leading to widespread criticism.

These errors prompted the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to lodge an official protest, resulting in the International Cricket Council (ICC) replacing Steve Bucknor for the third Test in Perth.

'Monkeygate' scandal

A significant flashpoint during the match was the altercation between Indian offspinner Harbhajan Singh and Australian allrounder Andrew Symonds. Symonds accused Harbhajan of directing a racial slur, alleging he was called a "monkey." Match referee Mike Procter conducted a hearing and imposed a three-match ban on Harbhajan. The decision incited strong reactions from the Indian camp, including threats to abandon the tour. Upon appeal, and with testimonies suggesting a misunderstanding, the ban was overturned, and Harbhajan received a 50 per cent match-fee fine instead.

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