On This Day, September 30: The former umpire Darrell Hair’s aggressive reputation was witnessed during one of the greatest upsets Test cricket has ever witnessed-such a loss that has never been in the books-with Australian umpire Darrell Hair.
In 2006, Hair and Billy Doctrove charged the Pakistan team of ball-tampering in a match that became infamous due to the decision made. He once notorized no-balled Sri Lankan spinner Muttiah Muralitharan in the 1995-96 season. He severely criticized Muralitharan’s bowling action in his autobiography.
While Hair had his share of cricket’s more memorable moments, thanks to his services as an umpire, such as Brian Lara’s record-breaking 375, Mike Atherton’s 185, and Courtney Walsh’s 500th Test wicket, he would forever be remembered by the match that saw the first forfeit in cricketing history. Having come under immense pressure from the Pakistan Cricket Board, the ICC initially declared the match a draw but went on to reverse that decision and declare that England won the match.
Darrell Hair’s tenure has been highlighted with having been able to make the tough calls, which left an indelible mark on the game and gave birth to a new whole discussion over umpiring in cricket.
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