South Africa were on the receiving end of two controversial umpiring decisions on the first day of the final test against New Zealand today but the visitors say they will not be losing any sleep over the setbacks.
Captain Graeme Smith was caught behind for five early in their innings, though television replays showed clear daylight between bat and ball.
Hashim Amla was then caught for 63 when replays suggested bowler Mark Gillespie’s back foot had touched the return crease, which should have been ruled a no-ball and let Amla off the hook.
Third umpire Billy Doctrove, however, upheld the on-field decisions to leave South Africa 136 for two at the close of play on the weather-affected first day of the Third test.
It’s an interesting one,’ South Africa assistant coach Russell Domingo said. ‘I think the rules say the third umpire is there to eliminate the howler and if he can’t see if it’s an absolute shocker they go with what happens on the field.
‘It’s one of those decisions that we’re not going to lose too much sleep over.’
Domingo said Smith, who referred the decision to Doctrove and shook his head several times when he walked off, had not blown his top about the dismissal in the dressing room.
‘I think he was more disappointed with the stroke he played. I suppose all batters when they get out are unhappy and will vent some frustration, but nothing untoward,’ Domingo added.