Snicko Drama Erupts Again in Ashes 2025
The contentious Snickometer technology has once again taken centre stage in the Ashes, embroiling the third Test in controversy. On Thursday, December 18, 2025, England's wicketkeeper-batter Jamie Smith was given out in a decision that has sparked widespread debate and left the English camp utterly dismayed at the Adelaide Oval.
The Controversial Dismissal: A Clear Gap Ignored
The incident occurred during the 46th over of England's first innings, shortly after Australia had been bowled out for 371. Facing a short delivery from Australian skipper Pat Cummins, Smith went for a pull shot. A faint noise was detected, prompting an immediate review.
On-field umpire Nitin Menon, after consulting with the square-leg umpire, referred the decision to third umpire Chris Gaffaney. The replay technology, particularly the Snicko (Real-Time Snickometer), showed a distinct spike as the ball passed the bat's toe-end. However, visual evidence simultaneously revealed a clear and visible gap between the bat and the ball, suggesting no contact was made.
Despite this contradictory evidence, third umpire Gaffaney relied on the Snicko spike. The 'OUT' decision flashed on the big screen, cutting short Smith's innings at 22 runs from 26 balls.
Reactions and the Lingering Fallout
The dismissal was met with visible disbelief and disappointment. Smith walked off the field in clear frustration, while his batting partner, captain Ben Stokes, could only stand helplessly at the crease with his head bowed. The decision has intensified the ongoing debate about the reliability of the Decision Review System (DRS) and its component technologies, with critics labelling it a 'third-quality' tool in high-stakes matches.
This event marks the latest in a series of Snicko-related controversies in the ongoing Ashes series, raising serious questions about its interpretation and application. The incident at a crucial juncture of the Test match has added another layer of drama to the historic rivalry, leaving fans and pundits alike discussing the need for technological consistency in cricket.
