Johnson lashes at Umpire Bowden’s no-ball referral in SCG Test
By ANIWednesday, January 5, 2011
SYDNEY - Australia’s left-arm fast bowler Mitchell Johnson has criticized umpire Billy Bowden for referring a crucial no-ball that denied left-arm spinner Michael Beer his first Test scalp in the form of England opener Alastair Cook. He said Bowden should called it rather than asking the third umpire.
He felt that had Bowden taken the decision, Cook may been out for 46 and not the 189 he eventually scored. It could have also put Australia back in the game.
It was the second English wicket overturned for a no ball in as many Tests.
Asked if he was happy with the referral system on no balls, Johnson replied: “Personally, I guess, being in that situation, probably not. It can be frustrating, I guess. If the umpires know it’s a no ball I think they should call it, instead of waiting to call it.
He added: “I think everyone’s going to have different opinions on it. My opinion is, I suppose it’s not a bad thing, but it can be frustrating if - I suppose you’ve just got to get your foot behind the line.”(ANI)
