DRS Drama: England Frustrated as Carey Escape Sparks Controversy in Third Test

England was left frustrated on day one of the third Ashes Test, as Australia’s Alex Carey survived a caught-behind appeal, despite Snicko technology failing to detect a clear edge off his bat.

The Australian wicketkeeper, who went on to score 106, marking his first Ashes century at his home ground, Adelaide Oval, later acknowledged feeling a slight touch when he attempted a shot off Josh Tongue’s delivery while on 72.

Though England confidently reviewed the not-out decision, believing there was contact, the Decision Review System (DRS) could not support their claim as Snicko did not register the edge at the relevant moment.

Carey continued his innings, adding an additional 34 runs to guide Australia to a total of 326 for eight at the end of the day, after choosing to bat first.

England’s bowling coach, David Saker, expressed displeasure with the technology, highlighting it as a recurring issue in the series.

“The team is quite certain he made contact. I suspect there’s a calibration issue with the Snicko,” Saker mentioned, following a taxing day on the field for England.

“It was a crucial call. These things can be costly. In this era, you’d expect technology to catch such instances,” Saker commented.

He noted England’s ongoing dissatisfaction with the technological accuracy throughout the series and indicated the possibility of addressing it with match officials.

“It needs improvement. We can’t do much about it,” he explained about the concerns of the England team.

This incident comes two years after Carey faced criticism during the 2023 Ashes for an infamous run-out of Jonny Bairstow in the second Test at Lord’s, which, although valid, sparked a debate on the “Spirit of Cricket” and drew boos from England fans for the series’ remainder.

While Wednesday’s event might not win Carey any fans in England, he was celebrated by the home crowd in Adelaide, receiving an ovation upon scoring his century.

“You can’t please everyone. People see you differently based on their allegiance. There are always heroes and villains,” Carey reflected.

Published on Dec 17, 2025