- Play in third Test at the SCG was again paused
- Followed a request from Aussie star Steve Smith
- Many cricket commentators were stunned at delay
A groundsman was briefly the toast of the SCG on Friday after solving a problem which incensed a series of cricket commentators during the third Test against Pakistan.
Star Aussie batsman Steve Smith, famed for his idiosyncratic nature at the crease, spotted a small piece of black gaffer tape next to the white sight screen.
Smith, 34, requested it be removed, resulting in a lengthy delay that Channel Seven commentator Simon Katich labelled ‘farcical.’
Co-commentator James Brayshaw added: ‘Only Steve Smith would pick that up…the problem with it, is once you have seen it, [tape] then it’s in your head,’ he said.
‘And if it’s bothering you, you’ve got to red rid of it. I know everyone will be watching thinking, “Come on, this is ridiculous”.’
A groundsman (pictured) was briefly the toast of the SCG on Friday after quickly solving a problem which baffled a series of cricket commentators during the third Test against Pakistan
‘But from Steve Smith’s point of view, he will be going, ‘now I’ve seen it it, I need it to go.’
The groundsman – known only as Michael – then seized his moment.
He swiftly removed the black gaffer tape in question, earning a huge applause from the crowd.
The man, clearly enjoying his time in the spotlight, lapped up the attention as he received countless high fives and a standing ovation.
It followed Steve Smith, famed for his idiosyncratic nature at the crease, spotting a small piece of black gaffer tape next to the white sight screen and demanding it be removed
Former Australian coach Justin Langer likened the colourful groundsman to the character ‘Spike’ from the movie Notting Hill, before declaring it was [probably] the ‘greatest day of his life.’
Following the delay, Smith was soon trudging back to the pavilion, caught for 38 from 86 balls after a savvy fielding trap from the tourists.
Cricket fans at the SCG have proven to be patient during the third Test after play was halted by the on-field umpires on Thursday due to bad light.
A rain delay then ensured stumps were called well before the scheduled close of play at 6pm, leaving 30,000 plus fans feeling short-changed.
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