Former England captain Michael Vaughan has openly criticised the International Cricket Council (ICC) for penalising only England team for slow over rates during the recently concluded third Test between England and India at Lord’s. Taking to social media, Vaughan expressed his frustration, calling the decision "beyond me" and highlighting that both teams were equally guilty of poor over rates.
“Let’s be honest, both teams' over rates at Lord’s were very, very poor. How only 1 team has been reprimanded is beyond me,” Vaughan wrote on X (formerly Twitter), triggering widespread debate among fans and cricket experts alike.
The ICC had earlier confirmed that England had been docked 2 points and fined 10 percent for maintaining a slow over rate during the match, which England won by 22 runs. However, there was no similar sanction announced for the Indian side.
Vaughan’s remarks reflect growing concern among former players and analysts about consistency in the application of rules, particularly those relating to over rates, a long-standing issue in modern Test cricket. He emphasised that fairness should be paramount and called on cricket’s governing body to ensure equal treatment for all teams.
The controversy has added to the buzz surrounding the ongoing Test series between England and India, which England currently leads 2-1. With two more matches to go, attention will not only be on the cricketing action but also on how match regulations are enforced moving forward.
IND Vs ENG: King Charles III Meets Indian Men's & Women's Cricket Team At St. James's Palace In London; Video
King Charles III extended a royal welcome to both the Indian Men’s and Women’s Cricket teams at the St. James's Palace in London on Tuesday, July 15. The meeting came shortly after the conclusion of the third men’s Test at Lord’s, where India narrowly lost to England by 22 runs. The monarch’s gesture celebrated the sporting spirit and longstanding cricketing ties between the two nations.
King Charles greeted the players and support staff from both teams, engaging in warm, informal conversations. The event was marked by mutual admiration and respect, as the King praised the athletes for their commitment, sportsmanship, and contributions to international cricket.
The Indian men’s team had recently wrapped up a thrilling Test match at Lord’s, following a dominant win at Edgbaston earlier in the series. Despite the narrow defeat, the squad received recognition for their performance and resilience throughout the tour. The presence of the women’s team added further significance to the occasion, highlighting the growing stature of women’s cricket on the global stage.
This rare joint royal audience emphasized cricket’s powerful role in diplomacy and cultural exchange. The meeting was not only a symbolic acknowledgment of sporting excellence but also a celebration of unity and Commonwealth connection through sport.
King Charles’ reception of the Indian cricketers reinforces his vision of using sport as a bridge between nations. The occasion was widely praised for its warmth and recognition of both teams’ dedication to representing India with pride.
