Rishabh Pant Throws Ball in Anger: Results in BIG Day 3 Controversy in India vs England Test

The Indian vice-captain lost his cool after umpires refused to replace the visibly worn Dukes ball during the 63rd over, triggering a dramatic on-field moment.

Leeds, June 22, 2025 – A major flashpoint unfolded on Day 3 of the ongoing India vs England 1st Test at Headingley, when India’s vice-captain Rishabh Pant threw the ball in frustration after a tense exchange with the on-field umpires over the condition of the Dukes ball. The moment, which occurred during England’s first innings, has since gone viral, sparking debate over umpiring discretion and player conduct.

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Pant’s Ball Change Appeal Ignored

The controversy erupted in the 63rd over, with Ben Stokes and Harry Brook at the crease. Pant, visibly unhappy with the state of the ball, approached the umpire to request a ball change. The umpire passed the ball through the official gauge but decided it was still within permissible limits and refused the appeal.

Pant was visibly agitated and, after a brief conversation, tossed the ball away in anger, a rare public display of frustration from the usually jovial wicketkeeper-batter.

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Flashpoint Captured on Video

The video of the incident quickly gained traction on social media, showing Pant engaging in a heated chat with the umpire, followed by his angry reaction. The gesture has divided opinion, with some defending Pant’s passion and others questioning his sportsmanship.

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Tribute to David ‘Syd’ Lawrence

Earlier in the day, players from both teams wore black armbands in memory of former England fast bowler David Lawrence, who passed away at the age of 61. Lawrence, the first British-born Black cricketer to represent England, had been battling Motor Neurone Disease (MND) since 2024.

The BCCI confirmed the tribute, stating, “There was a moment’s applause before the start of play on Day 3.” Lawrence, affectionately known as “Syd”, was a legend at Gloucestershire and had authored a book, Syd’s Voice, to raise awareness about MND. His international career was cut short due to a career-ending kneecap injury during a 1992 Test in New Zealand.

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Looking Ahead

With Jasprit Bumrah’s five-wicket haul handing India a narrow 6-run first innings lead, the focus now shifts to India’s second innings. However, the ball-change controversy involving Pant may lead to further discussions within the match referee’s report or disciplinary review.

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Conclusion:
While India battles for dominance in the middle, Rishabh Pant’s emotional outburst has highlighted the intensity and pressure of Test cricket. Whether disciplinary action follows or not, the incident underscores how small decisions can flare tempers even at the highest levels of the game.

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India vs England 1st Test, Rishabh Pant ball throw, Day 3 controversy, Headingley Test 2025, Dukes ball condition, Ben Stokes, David Lawrence tribute, MND awareness, Jasprit Bumrah 5-for, cricket news