Cricket has witnessed 5 controversial sledging incidents that left a lasting impact. From fiery exchanges and personal remarks to humorous on-field antics and heated altercations, these moments reflect the intense competitive spirit and occasional crossing of lines during high-stakes matches, highlighting the charged atmosphere of the game.
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5. Monkey gate incident – Harbhajan Singh and Andrew Symonds
The infamous Monkeygate incident is one of the darkest moments in the India-Australia cricket rivalry. During the 2008 Sydney Test, Harbhajan Singh was accused of calling Andrew Symonds a “monkey,” sparking major controversy. However, it later emerged that Symonds had instigated the exchange with verbal abuse, prompting Harbhajan to retaliate. The fallout led to Harbhajan being handed a three-match Test ban, marking a controversial chapter in cricket history.
4. Michael Clarke hurls abuse towards James Anderson in Ashes 2013/14
The first Test of the 2013/14 Ashes series at the Gabba witnessed heated exchanges that set the tone for the series. While batting, James Anderson clashed with George Bailey, leading to a tense moment. Australian captain Michael Clarke intervened, warning Anderson to brace for Mitchell Johnson’s 150 km/h bumpers. The fiery sledging exchange became one of the series’ most infamous moments.
3. Ishant Sharma sledges Steve Smith in his funny own way
During the second Test of the India-Australia 2017 series in Bengaluru, Ishant Sharma clashed with Australian skipper Steve Smith. Frustrated by Smith’s batting antics, Ishant humorously mimicked his mannerisms while bowling. The pacer’s exaggerated expressions went viral, becoming a lighthearted highlight and one of the most memorable moments of the match.
2. Quinton de Kock makes a personal comment about Warner’s wife
The South Africa-Australia series is infamous for the Sandpaper Gate scandal, but tensions had already flared during the first Test in Durban. Quinton de Kock reportedly made personal remarks about David Warner and his wife, triggering a heated response from Warner. The confrontation escalated into a staircase altercation after the tea break, leading to sanctions against Warner for his reaction. This incident set the stage for a highly controversial series.
1. Shannon Gabriel asks Joe Root if he likes boys?
During the third Test of the 2019 West Indies-England series in St. Lucia, Shannon Gabriel and Joe Root had a controversial exchange. Gabriel asked Root if he “likes boys,” prompting Root’s composed reply, “There’s nothing wrong with being gay.” The conversation, caught on the stump mic, led to a 4-match ban for Gabriel, who later accepted his mistake and chose not to challenge the sanction.