Australian wicketkeeper Alex Carey once again found himself at the epicentre of Ashes controversy, playing a starring yet contentious role on the opening days of the third Test against England in Adelaide.
A Century Marred by Calibration Error
On day one, the 34-year-old local hero crafted a classy century, delighting his home crowd. However, his innings on 72 was shrouded in controversy. Carey edged a wide delivery from England's Josh Tongue, with the catch taken by Jamie Smith. The on-field umpire gave it not out, and England instantly signalled for a review.
Despite Snicko technology showing a clear spike as the ball passed the bat, the third umpire, Chris Gaffaney, upheld the original decision. It was later revealed this was due to a 'calibration error' in the DRS system. Post-match, Carey admitted he believed he had nicked the ball. "I thought there was a feather or some sort of noise when it passed the bat," he told reporters, adding with a quip that he was "clearly not" a walker.
Carey in the Spotlight Again on Day Two
After Australia were bowled out for 371 on day two, Carey was immediately back under scrutiny. He claimed a low catch that would have dismissed England's premier batsman, Joe Root. Given Carey's involvement in the previous day's incident, many England supporters were instantly sceptical.
The third umpire was called upon once more and, after extensive review, ruled that the ball had bounced before Carey gloved it. Root was therefore given not out, a decision that sparked a fresh wave of debate on social media.
Echoes of Lord's and Fan Reactions
The incidents inevitably drew comparisons to Carey's infamous stumping of Jonny Bairstow at Lord's during the 2023 Ashes, a dismissal that was legal but divisive. Reaction to the Adelaide events was fiercely partisan.
"Maybe the Poms will stop whinging now...not likely though," teased one Australian fan on X. Another suggested, "Clearly out, but for PR reasons they had to make up for the mistake on Wednesday." Meanwhile, an England supporter countered, "Disgraceful Root didn't walk," highlighting the perennial debate over the 'spirit of cricket'.
Carey's century proved a decisive contribution in a match already simmering with tension, but his dual role in these key moments ensures his name remains synonymous with Ashes drama.
