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In the ongoing World Test Championship 2025 final between Australia and South Africa at the iconic Lord’s, the latter’s middle-order batter David Bedingham survived a handling-the ball appeal from the former’s side. On Day 2, when Bedingham faced Beau Webster, the former’s bat nicked and got stuck in the area between his pad and feet. With the ball hanging near the turf, the Aussie stumper Alex Carey went close to the Protea with an attempt to grab a catch.
In the crunch situation, Bedingham displayed alertness as he bent down and used his hand to drop the ball away from his body. Witnessing the scene, Carey appealed to the umpire against the South African. However, on-field umpires Richard Illingworth and Chris Gaffaney didn’t give a verdict in the bowling side’s favour. Bedingham survived as the MCC Law 37.3.1 states that a batter is out impeding the field if they intentionally contain a fielder from making a play. In 2017, ICC made reforms and declared ‘handling the ball’ is no longer a separate dismissal and comes under this law. As per umpires, Bedingham made contact with the ball but didn’t hinder Carey deliberately.
Australia bowl South Africa out for 138
After getting bowled out for 212, Australia’s bowling attack looked confident and winded up South Africa’s innings on 138. With this the Aussie side have gained a 74-run lead in the first innings. Except for Temba Bavuma (36 off 84) and Bedingham (45 off 111), all batters struggled to contest against Australia's bowling unit.
Pat Cummins bagged 6/28 figures and completed the milestone of 300 wickets in Test cricket. In his remarkable spell, Cummins picked up the crucial scalps of Wiaan Mulder, Temba Bavuma, Kyle Verryenne, Marco Jansen, and Bedingham. Apart from that, Mitchell Starc took two wickets while Josh Hazlewood put one in his bag.
