The controversy was sparked in 2016 when Andre Russell used a black cricket bat in a Big Bash League match. The bat received mixed reactions on social media, and Cricket Australia initially cleared it for use but later banned it for altering the ball’s color. This incident was not the first of its kind, as cricket equipment has been controversial. Here are five instances where the use of controversial cricket bats caused problems.
1. The Monster Bat
During a cricket match between Chertsey and Hambleton, a batsman used a broad bat that covered the stumps’ width. Although innovative, the batsman’s move was criticized as unsportsmanlike. The opposing team protested, and a petition was signed to change the laws of cricket, setting the maximum bat width at four-and-a-quarter inches.
2. The Mongoose
Matthew Hayden’s use of the Mongoose bat in the 2010 IPL caused controversy over its legality. While praised by Mohammad Ashraful, defending with the bat was difficult, prompting Suresh Raina to switch back to a traditional bat. Despite this, Hayden scored a 43-ball 93 against the Delhi Daredevils, demonstrating its power.
3. Chris Gayle’s Golden Bat
Chris Gayle used a golden-coloured Spartan bat in the 2015 BBL game, sparking concerns about metal in the bat and calling for its ban. However, Spartan boss Kunal Sharma dismissed the reports and clarified that they only used gold coloring and followed cricket bat restrictions.
4. Dennis Lillee’s aluminium bat
Dennis Lillee used an aluminium bat in a 1979 Test match against England after previously using it against West Indies. During the game, Greg Chappell asked Lillee to switch to a traditional wooden bat after complaints from England captain Mike Brearley about damage to the ball. Lillee discarded the aluminium bat and resumed his innings with a wooden bat.
5. Ricky Ponting’s revolutionary cricket bat with carbon graphite strip
Ricky Ponting’s 2006 cricket bat with a carbon graphite strip caused controversy over concerns. It gave him an unfair advantage. After a review, the MCC deemed the bat illegal and rejected two similar Kookaburra bats. Ponting had previously scored a double-century with the bat during a Test match against Pakistan.
