India angry at lack of video footage evidence against James Anderson
Finding an amicable solution to the on-field spat between James Anderson and Ravindra Jadeja anytime soon seems impossible, with the Indian officials now said to be upset at the lack of video evidence on the tussle between the two, as revealed by ESPNcricinfo.
The Indian team had lodged a complaint with the International Cricket Council (ICC) against the England seamer, who, they allege, made physical contact with Jadeja during the lunch break on day 2 of the 1st Test match at Trent Bridge. This led to England making a counter-charge against the Indian spinner, alleging that the incident was precipitated by Jadeja.
Both teams have a contrasting version of events, which led to India requesting for video footage of the incident. The visitors believe that they have a strong case against the opposition attack leader, but, if no video footage is available, it is going to be extremely difficult to hold either party guilty.
Inactive camera:
The problem, according to a Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club spokesman, is that, although a camera was in place in the appropriate area, it wasn’t active at the time.
India have reacted with disbelief to the explanation that the camera wasn’t ‘on’ at that moment, insinuating that it is just an attempt by the ECB authorities to downplay the incident.
A BCCI member, when asked whether there was a chance of them withdrawing their complaint, said that Anderson’s constant abuse directed towards the opposition teams has made them grow tired of his behaviour and that he needs to be penalised, thereby dismissing any chance of them reverting their appeal.
The preliminary hearing on the incident will be taking place on Tuesday in London and will be presided by an Australian in Gordon Lewis. If the charge against Anderson is proved, it will be a huge blow for England, as the 31-year-old will, then, have to sit out for a minimum of 2 Test matches.