Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja was asked to remove tape from his bowling hand during the Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final against Australia. This left fans puzzled about the reason behind the decision.
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It was in the 19th over of Australia’s innings when umpire Richard Illingworth stopped Jadeja as he was about to deliver a ball. Jadeja had tape wrapped around his left wrist.
The tape extended between his thumb and forefinger. Illingworth questioned the use of the tape that prompted a discussion that also involved Virat Kohli and captain Rohit Sharma.
Eventually, Jadeja was instructed to remove the tape before resuming his over. However, later in the innings, he was seen putting the tape back on after seemingly injuring his hand while stopping a shot from Steve Smith.
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What does the ICC rule say?
The umpire’s decision was based on the ICC’s playing conditions for the 2025 Champions Trophy. It was article 28.1 -- which governs protective gear for fielders other than the wicketkeeper. The rule states:
"Protection for the hand or fingers may be worn only with consent of the umpires."
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Since Jadeja had not received prior approval, Illingworth requested its removal. Although when it became evident that Jadeja had a genuine injury, he was later allowed to reapply the tape.
In Australia's batting innings, Jadeja provided crucial breakthrough by dismissing Marnus Labuschagne before the halfway stage. Labuschagne was trapped lbw with a quicker delivery.
Shortly afterward, he dismissed Josh Inglis. This left Australia struggling at 144-4 in the 27th over. Australia went on to score 264 runs, setting a challenging target for India in Dubai.