Warner Criticises Smith Over Early Review in Australia Test

David Warner has expressed sharp criticism regarding Steve Smith's on-field behavior during a Test match between Australia and Bangladesh. The controversy arose when Steve Smith signaled for a player review before umpire Kumar Dharmasena had even made an official decision regarding his dismissal.

The unusual incident took place on Saturday, 15 August 2026, precisely on the first ball of the 14th over. At this stage in the second innings, Australia had lost two wickets with the team score standing at 40 runs, leaving them trailing Bangladesh by 67 runs overall.

Reflecting on the premature review during the broadcast, commentator Kerry O'Keeffe remarked, "We witnessed an incident in Test cricket where a batter moved to take a review before the umpire gave a decision." David Warner was notably critical of his teammate's actions, stating, "I didn't like the way Steve reacted at all. You cannot do that." Warner added for emphasis, "I don't think you can do that!"

Upon review, technology confirmed that Smith was indeed not out, as the noise initially perceived as an edge actually resulted from the bat striking the ground. Speaking about the lucky escape and subsequent events, Steve Smith noted, "Was I lucky? Yes, it seems so. Sometimes you just have to accept things like that."

Despite surviving that specific review, Smith's innings eventually concluded later in the match. He was dismissed after scoring 44 runs from 88 balls, caught off the bowling of Mehidy Hasan Miraz, following involvement in the match alongside other players including Ebadot Hossain, Litton Das, Brendon Julian, and Kerry O’Keeffe.