- Stump Mic Catches Australian Star’s Scathing Comment On Technology In 3rd Ashes Test

Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc was visibly frustrated with the Snicko technology on Day 2 of the third Ashes 2025–26 Test at the Adelaide Oval. In an exchange picked up by the stump mic, the left-arm pacer remarked that the technology should be scrapped after a decision went against the hosts.

The incident took place in the 43rd over when Australian skipper Pat Cummins bowled a short delivery to England wicketkeeper-batter Jamie Smith. Smith appeared uncomfortable as the ball seemed to brush his glove before looping towards Usman Khawaja at slip.

However, following an umpire review, TV umpire Chris Gaffaney ruled that the ball had struck Smith’s helmet rather than the glove. Once the ‘Not Out’ decision appeared on the big screen, Starc’s reaction was caught on the stump mic, saying:

“Snicko needs to be sacked. That’s the worst technology there is.”

You can watch the video here:

https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/2001523091101425735?s=46

The technology had already drawn criticism on Day 1 when Alex Carey was given a lifeline on 72. England appealed for a caught-behind, but Snicko indicated that the sound and spike were not in sync as Carey played the shot. Based on that evidence, the decision was ruled not out, and Carey later went on to register an important century.

It was later revealed that BBG Sports, the company responsible for the technology, acknowledged a mistake in the system.

Snicko Under Scrutiny Again After Jamie Smith Dismissal

The technology came under further scrutiny after Jamie Smith was dismissed on Day 2 following a useful knock of 22. As the wicketkeeper-batter attempted a cross-batted shot, Alex Carey appealed for a caught-behind from behind the stumps. While there appeared to be daylight between the bat and ball, Snicko registered a distinct spike.

The third umpire relied on the technology’s reading, prompting a frustrated reaction from Smith, with England captain Ben Stokes also showing his displeasure. England are now in trouble at 208/8, having conceded a first-innings total of 371 to the hosts, powered by Carey’s 106 and half-centuries from Usman Khawaja and Mitchell Starc.