‘Not Ideal’: DRS Drama Dominates Day Two of Third Ashes Test
The Decision Review System (DRS) was once again at the centre of controversy on the second day of the third Ashes Test, with players and coaches from both sides expressing clear frustration. England's batting coach, Marcus Trescothick, summed up the mood by describing the technology's application as "not ideal" following a series of debatable calls.
Echoes of Day One Confusion
The scrutiny began on the opening day when Australia's Alex Carey was incorrectly reprieved by the third umpire after apparently feathering a catch to England's wicketkeeper. Officials later suggested operator error, involving a misalignment of sound and picture frames, was to blame.
On Thursday, the focus shifted to England's Jamie Smith. Australia were convinced he had gloved a bouncer from captain Pat Cummins, but the on-field not out decision stood after review. The frustration in the field was palpable; pace bowler Mitchell Starc was heard on the stump microphone calling for the 'snicko' technology to be "sacked", while batsman Marnus Labuschagne openly scoffed at the suggestion Smith needed a concussion check.
Smith's stay was ended shortly afterwards, given out on review after toe-ending another Cummins short ball. However, the dismissal was accompanied by another ambiguous audio spike, leaving observers questioning the consistency of the process.
Coaches and Players Left Trusting the Process
Speaking at close of play with England struggling at 213-8 in reply to Australia's 371, Trescothick voiced the team's bewilderment. "It's not an ideal scenario," he stated. "We've been on the back end of some poor ones yesterday, and a few ones that you sort of question over the course of today."
He emphasised that the solution lay off the field: "It's up for the powers that be behind the scenes to try and work that out, but as players, we've just got to trust in the process." Regarding Smith's dismissal, Trescothick remained nonplussed, noting there was "debate about the timing of Snicko" but that the team had to accept the outcome.
Stokes' Gritty Effort Amid Physical Struggle
Amid the technological debate, England captain Ben Stokes provided a lone hand of resistance, battling through the intense 37-degree heat. Trescothick revealed Stokes had suffered from cramp for most of the final session. "He found it hard getting the volume of carbohydrate drink into him... he was sweating so quickly," the coach explained, praising his captain's trademark determination.
Despite the grim position in the match, with hopes of a series-saving victory fading, Trescothick insisted the team was still fighting. He refused to blame the top order for a lack of fight, instead crediting the Australian bowlers for making life exceptionally difficult. "Everybody has the opportunity to read the situation... Ben has chosen to play in that fashion today and he's gone about it in a way that he thought was right," Trescothick concluded.
