Rohit Sharma intervenes as Sarfaraz’s antics irritate Mitchell, umpire warns players

India captain Rohit Sharma was seen having a animated conversation with umpire Richard Illingworth after the umpire issued a stern warning to Indian opener Sarfaraz Khan after his on-field chatter appeared to unsettle New Zealand batter Daryl Mitchell. From his usual spot next to the bat, Sarfaraz spoke loudly throughout Mitchell’s innings, angering the Kiwi batter and forcing him to voice his concerns.

The incident occurred shortly before the start of the 32nd day of the first day. As Mitchell’s frustration became apparent, Judge Illingworth summoned Rohit and Sarfaraz to speak, issuing a stern warning against further disruption. Virat Kohli joined his teammates during the discussion as Rohit animatedly defended Sarfaraz’s actions. Commentators noted that Mitchell may have raised the issue with the umpire, indicating that Sarfaraz’s constant chatter was distracting him at the crease.

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The Indian captain’s intervention came just before a spate of miscommunication led to India missing five extra runs due to overturning. After the stand, Ravindra Jadeja hit a flying ball that hit Mitchell in the pads, prompting a loud LBW appeal from the Indian side. Mitchell took the opportunity and took a quick single and Akash Deep’s throw narrowly missed the stumps. However, the ball ricocheted past the infield, reached the boundary and gave New Zealand a total of five bonus runs.

Despite the heated exchanges, the Indian bowlers remained focused and struck decisive shots in the first session. Akash Deep took the first wicket by trapping Devon Conway lbw while Washington Sundar claimed two other key dismissals. Sundar sent New Zealand captain Tom Latham and Rachin Ravindra back to the pavilion with accurate deliveries that crashed into the stumps. However, India struggled to maintain momentum in the afternoon as New Zealand settled into a steady rhythm.

India, trailing the series 0-2, are determined to salvage a win at the Wankhede Stadium and avoid a rare home series defeat. The Kiwis have already secured the series by winning the first Test by eight wickets in Bengaluru and the second by 113 runs in Pune.