The 2008 Sydney Test between India and Australia produced a scintillating brand of cricket. The Aussies did win the game by 122 runs but fans will remember the game for India’s stunning batting in the first innings. The fixture will also be remembered for some unfortunate events that changed the course of India-Australia’s cricket rivalry once and for all. It was the infamous ‘Monkeygate’ scandal that marred the Sydney Test.
One of the most controversial incidents in the history of Test cricket, the ‘Monkeygate’ scandal involved an unpleasant stand-off between India’s Harbhajan Singh and late Australia all-rounder Andrew Symonds.
The on-field argument soon transpired to be a racial controversy and was known as the ‘Monkeygate’ scandal. The ill-famed Sydney Test had concluded on this day back in 2008.
The highly contentious incident occured during India’s first innings with Sachin Tendulkar and Harbhajan Singh batting. The duo had stitched a 100-run partnership for the 8th wicket. The Indian spinner scored a boundary off Aussie pacer Brett Lee’s delivery and the tussle ensued right after this.
Following the shot, Harbhajan Singh reportedly patted Lee on the back calling hard luck to him. Bhajji’s gesture did not go down well with Australia’s Andrew Symonds who decided to issue a response. The Australia all-rounder was recorded on the stump mic saying, “We don’t need it, do it to your own teammates.” Harbhajan also responded with a word or two.
The verbal spat even forced umpire Mark Benson to intervene and say some words to Harbhajan Singh. It was then detected that the Australia cricketers had complained to the umpire about Harbhajan making an objectionable racist comment towards Symonds. The Indian spinner had allegedly called Symonds “monkey”.
Later, match referee Mike Procter stated that Harbhajan Singh had breached level 3 offence of the ICC’s code of conduct. Harbhajan was even charged with a three-Test ban. Later, the ICC appeals commissioner Justice John Hansen found Harbhajan innocent. The former India cricketer was instead handed a fine of 50 percent of his match fees.
Coming back to on-field developments, chasing a target of 333, Team India were bowled out for 210 in that fixture. Andrew Symonds and Michael Clarke scalped three wickets each to earn a convincing for the hosts.
Comments
0 comment