Steve Smith's Controversial Review Sparks Debate During AUS vs BAN Test

In a gripping Test match between Australia and Bangladesh, vice-captain Steve Smith's hasty review decision has ignited debate among commentators and fans alike. As Australia struggles to recover from a disappointing first innings, Smith's actions during the second innings have drawn sharp criticism from former teammate David Warner. With Bangladesh aiming for their first Test victory on Australian soil, the stakes are high as the match approaches its climax. Read on to explore the unfolding drama and the reactions from the commentary box.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 15, 2026, 23:02 IST

Tension Builds in Darwin Test

On Day 3 of the first Test match between Australia and Bangladesh at Marrara Cricket Ground in Darwin, vice-captain Steve Smith faced criticism from former teammate David Warner for his hasty review decision. This incident occurred on Saturday, August 15.

After dismissing Bangladesh for 426 runs in their first innings, Australia began their second innings, reaching 161 for 4 in 53 overs. Cameron Green and Alex Carey were at the crease, scoring 43 and 19 runs, respectively, while trailing by 67 runs, setting the stage for a dramatic conclusion.

Australia's Struggles in First Innings

In their first innings, Australia struggled against the Bangladesh bowling attack, getting bowled out for just 198 runs. Steve Smith managed to score a resilient 71 runs off 109 balls and formed a vital 56-run partnership with Alex Carey, who contributed 19 runs. Unfortunately, the lower order failed to support Smith, leading to a disappointing total.

Warner Critiques Smith's Review Decision

As Australia attempted to stabilize their innings, a peculiar moment involving Smith raised eyebrows in the commentary box. During the 14th over, Smith attempted to drive a delivery from Ebadot Hossain but missed, producing a sound as his bat hit the ground. Bangladesh appealed for a caught-behind, but before the on-field umpire Kumar Dharmasena could respond, Smith opted for a review.

Warner, commenting for Kayo Sports, expressed his disapproval, stating, "I just don't like the way that Steve's reacted there. You can't do that. I just don’t think you can do that."

Smith's Previous Close Call

Earlier in the match, Smith encountered a similar situation where he edged a delivery from Hossain and began to walk off, only for the appeal to be turned down by the umpire. Bangladesh reviewed the decision, but replays indicated no contact with the bat, allowing Smith to continue his innings. He later confessed that he thought he had edged the ball.

Commentators React to Unique Review

Kerry O’Keefe, another commentator for Kayo Sports, found Smith's decision to review before the umpire's call amusing. He remarked that it was a "unique moment" in Test cricket, highlighting that a batter had sought a review prior to the umpire making a decision.

O’Keefe noted, "That is a unique moment in Test cricket that a batter has gone upstairs before the umpire has made a decision."

Australia's Challenge Ahead

As the match progresses, Australia faces a tough challenge on the penultimate day, needing to fight hard to avoid an unexpected defeat. Cameron Green and Alex Carey are crucial in bridging the remaining deficit and mounting a comeback.

Conversely, Bangladesh is poised to make history by potentially winning their first Test match on Australian soil, having established a strong position with disciplined bowling and a formidable first-innings total of 426 runs.