Warner questions protocol as Smith’s premature review signal sparks debate in Test match
Steve Smith was cleared by technology after signalling for a review before umpire Kumar Dharmasena raised his finger, but David Warner insisted the action was improper.
Former Australian opener David Warner has publicly questioned the conduct of teammate Steve Smith following an unusual incident during the first Test match against Bangladesh. Warner criticised Smith for signalling a review before on-field umpire Kumar Dharmasena had raised his finger, describing the reaction as inappropriate despite the eventual outcome favouring the batter.
The incident occurred in the 14th over of the day’s play with Australia at 40 for two. Bowler Ebadot Hossain delivered a ball outside off stump, prompting Smith to attempt a drive. As the ball passed the bat, a sound was heard, leading Hossain and wicketkeeper Litton Das to appeal for an edge.
As Dharmasena began the motion to raise his finger, Smith immediately made the ‘T’ signal for a review. Warner, speaking on air, stated he had no issue with Smith challenging the decision but took exception to the timing of the signal.
“I just don’t like the way that Steve’s reacted there,” Warner said. “You can’t do that.” When commentator Brendon Julian noted Smith’s certainty in not being out and his rapid response, Warner repeated his stance, adding, “I just don’t think you can do that.”
Former Australian spinner Kerry O’Keeffe characterised the event as a unique moment in Test cricket, noting the rarity of a batter going upstairs before the umpire had formally made a decision. The review technology, utilising ECHO edge, confirmed Smith was not out, showing the sound originated from his bat hitting the ground rather than an edge.
This was not the only contentious moment involving Smith and the match officials. Earlier in the innings, Smith had started walking after a caught-behind appeal from Hossain, only for Dharmasena to withhold the decision. Bangladesh reviewed the call, and technology showed no edge, a result Smith later acknowledged, admitting he believed he had made contact but was fortunate to survive.
Smith was eventually dismissed for 44 runs off 88 balls, edging Mehidy Hasan Miraz. Australia concluded the day in a difficult position, trailing Bangladesh by 67 runs with four wickets remaining at the close of play.
