Frustrated Daren Sammy Confronts Match Referee After Umpiring Drama in WI vs AUS Test

West Indies head coach Daren Sammy met with match referee Javagal Srinath following a tense Day 2 of the first Test against Australia in Barbados, expressing concern over multiple umpiring decisions that went against his side. At the heart of the issue was third umpire Adrian Holdstock, whose rulings have now raised questions within the West Indies camp over consistency and process.

Two critical moments on Day 2 have drawn particular scrutiny. Roston Chase was adjudged LBW despite a visible inside edge, while Shai Hope was given out caught despite unclear evidence the catch was clean. Both calls went in Australia’s favour, and Sammy who had also raised similar concerns with Holdstock’s officiating during the recent WI vs England ODI series has called for greater transparency and uniformity.

“We are just trying to find some sort of understanding as to what the process is. We only hope for consistency. That’s all we could ask for,” Sammy told ESPNCricinfo.

Sammy stopped short of suggesting bias but did admit that repeated incidents involving the same umpire had prompted serious reflection within the team setup.

“Look, you don’t want to get yourself in a situation where you’re wondering about certain umpires. Is there something against this team? But when you see decision after decision, then it raises the question.”

He emphasized that the team was not looking to question the umpires’ integrity but needed reassurance that the decision-making process was fair and clear.

“I want to have that conversation as to the process… because, at the end of the day, you don’t want to be going into a Test match not trusting the umpires.”

While disappointed with the officiating, Sammy acknowledged West Indies’ own missed chances—four dropped catches and reminded his players to remain composed, warning them against public comments that could lead to sanctions.

“We know the rules. We know fines going all across the board,” he said. “Yes, we’re kind of shooting ourselves in the foot by dropping so many catches… but look at the Test match, [us] against our own selves, some of these decisions, and we’re still in a position to win.”

At stumps on Day 2, Australia were 92/4 in their second innings, leading by 82 runs, with Beau Webster (19*) and Travis Head (13*) unbeaten. Despite the controversy, the West Indies remain well in contention, and the third day promises more drama on and off the field.