Former India spinner R Ashwin has questioned the use of the concussion substitute in the fourth T20 International match against England. During the match, batsman Shivam Dubey scored a half-century but was hurt on the head by a ball from Jamie Overton in the final over. As a result, Team India used Harshit Rana as a substitute for Dubey under the concussion protocol. Rana, a fast bowler, took three wickets on his debut and helped India win the match by 15 runs, securing the T20 series.
Reaction to the Decision
Ashwin expressed his opinion on this issue on his YouTube channel, stating that this was a case of incorrect calculation in international cricket, not the Indian Premier League (IPL). He argued that Rana, a fast bowler, could not be a direct replacement for all-rounder Dubey, especially when a similar player, Ramandeep Singh, was available but not used. Ashwin described the situation as “poetic injustice” and pointed out inconsistencies in the application of the concussion substitute rule, citing the example of spinner Chahal replacing spinner Jadeja.
Protest from England Captain
England captain Jose Butler also expressed dissatisfaction with the decision, seeking clarification from the match referee on the policy for equal replacements under the concussion protocol. Ashwin believes that such decisions can negatively impact any team and should be reconsidered. The issue may gain more attention as India prepares to play the final T20 match against England.