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India's Use of Concussion Substitute Draws Criticism After Series Win Over England

England captain Jos Buttler and others question the 'like-for-like' replacement of all-rounder Shivam Dube with pacer Harshit Rana during the fourth T20I.

Ravichandran Ashwin questioned the on-field officials and match referee for allowing Harshit Rana to come in as a concussion substitute for Shivam Dube.
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Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube formed an 87-run stand for the sixth wicket, helping India post over 180 runs on the board. REUTERS/Anushree Fadnavis
Pacer Harshit Rana, coming in as a concussion substitute for Shivam Dube, has become a huge talking point, and not many are pleased with this call. (PTI Photo/Shashank Parade) (PTI01_31_2025_000597A)

Overview

  • India secured a 15-run victory in the fourth T20I against England, clinching the series 3-1, but the match was overshadowed by a substitution controversy.
  • Shivam Dube, who scored a crucial half-century, was replaced by debutant pacer Harshit Rana as a concussion substitute after being struck on the helmet during the innings break.
  • England captain Jos Buttler criticized the decision, arguing that Rana, a specialist fast bowler, was not a 'like-for-like' replacement for Dube, a batting all-rounder.
  • The ICC match referee approved the substitution, but Buttler expressed frustration over the lack of consultation and called for clarity on the decision-making process.
  • Rana played a key role in India's win, taking three wickets, including the dismissal of Jamie Overton, which ended England's chase in the final overs.