Daren Sammy Raises Concerns Over Umpiring Decisions in Test Against Australia

Daren Sammy, the West Indies head coach, has raised significant concerns regarding the umpiring decisions made by Adrian Holdstock during the first Test against Australia. He highlighted several contentious calls, particularly on Day 2, and sought clarity from the match referee. Sammy emphasized the need for fairness and consistency in officiating, urging his players to focus on their performance despite the controversies. He expressed frustration over perceived inconsistencies and questioned whether there was bias against his team. As the series progresses, Sammy is looking for assurance in the decision-making process to maintain trust in the umpires.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 27, 2025, 12:02 IST

Sammy's Concerns on Umpiring

Daren Sammy, the head coach of the West Indies cricket team, has voiced his apprehensions regarding the decisions made by TV umpire Adrian Holdstock during the first Test match against Australia. He highlighted several controversial calls, particularly on the second day of the match. In response, Sammy approached the match referee to seek clarity and consistency in the officiating, as the West Indies felt that some rulings were unfavorable to them. Australian players also expressed their doubts about certain decisions.

Sammy underscored the necessity of fairness and trust in the umpires, stating that the team would concentrate on their performance despite the contentious calls. He instructed his players to refrain from making public comments about the decisions.

As quoted from ESPNcricinfo, Sammy remarked, "We are just trying to find some sort of understanding as to what the process is. We only hope for consistency. That’s all we could ask for. When there is doubt in something, just be consistent across the board."

He further noted, "I have noticed, especially with this particular umpire, it’s something that for me started in England. It’s frustrating. I just ask for consistency in the decision-making. You don’t want to find yourself in a situation where you’re questioning certain umpires."

Sammy raised concerns about whether there was bias against his team, stating, "When you see decision after decision, then it raises the question. I know he’s here for the series. You don’t want to go into a Test match with that doubt."

He emphasized the importance of clarity in the decision-making process, saying, "At the end of the day, you don’t want to be going into a Test match not trusting the umpires. That’s not what our team is about. We’re just looking for some clarity regarding the decisions."

When asked if the West Indies would file a formal complaint, Sammy replied, "You’ll have to wait and see for that."