On-field umpire Kumar Dharmasena found himself at the center of a social media storm following a controversial moment during Day 1 of the fifth Test between India and England at The Oval. The incident occurred in the 13th over of India's innings, when Sai Sudharsan was struck on the pads by a delivery from Josh Tongue, triggering a loud LBW appeal from the English fielders.

While Dharmasena correctly ruled the batter not out, it was his immediate gesture, suggesting an inside edge, that sparked outrage online. Crucially, this signal came before the completion of the official 15-second Decision Review System (DRS) timer, which left England uncertain about whether to review the decision. Ultimately, stand-in skipper Ollie Pope opted against the review, possibly influenced by Dharmasena's early indication.

Why is Sri Lankan umpire Kumar Dharmasena telling the English bowler that it's a clear edge by showing his fingers?@ICC what's going on ? Clearly he is fixing there because he showed that signal that's why English fielders don't appeal after that and don't go for review… pic.twitter.com/hkqu6UFd2X

— MK (@mkr4411) July 31, 2025

The replay later confirmed that the ball had indeed taken the inside edge, validating the on-field call. However, fans on social media were quick to criticise the umpire, arguing that such gestures, especially before the review window expires, could unintentionally sway a fielding side’s decision. Many accused Dharmasena of overstepping his role, suggesting that it was the third umpire’s responsibility to make such judgments once a review is formally initiated.