India accused of breaking rules in fifth Test with questionable fielding tactic: 'It's cheating'
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Irate cricket fans have taken to social media during the fifth Test to complain about Indian support staff breaching the rules with a cheeky fielding tactic. On a number of occasions throughout the decisive fifth Test at the SCG, viewers have noticed Indian team officials picking up the ball before it reaches the boundary.
![[Australia are chasing victory in the fifth Test at the SCG on Sunday]](https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2025/01/05/00/93746541-14250921-image-a-2_1736038332912.jpg)
The move appears to be a ploy to help conserve the fielders' energy, so they don't have to run out to the boundary. Broadcaster Jim Maxwell noted that the move also kept the ball in better condition as it wasn't rolling out of the field of play. However, the tactic has incensed fans.
![[The stage is set for an entertaining finale to the five-match series]](https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2025/01/05/00/93746543-14250921-image-a-3_1736038342955.jpg)
'He's been doing it all series. Can you imagine if an Aussie trainer did this in India?' posted one fan on X. Angry cricket fans have complained about Indian support staff breaching the rules with a cheeky fielding tactic. Australia are chasing victory in the fifth Test at the SCG on Sunday.
'Why are officials handling the ball?' questioned another. 'It's cheating. It's the fielders job to collect the ball not the Indian staff.'. Meanwhile, Aussie coach Andrew McDonald has accused India of trying to intimidate teenager Sam Konstas, claiming the ICC have set a benchmark by not punishing the tourists.
McDonald revealed on Saturday evening he moved to check on Konstas' welfare on Friday night, after his on-field spat with India captain Jasprit Bumrah in the fifth-and-deciding Test at the SCG. Of particular concern to McDonald was the fact several Indian players ran to celebrate in Konstas' face after Bumrah dismissed Usman Khawaja on the last ball of day one.
