Cricket is often called the “gentleman’s game,” but the sport has seen its fair share of scandals, conflicts, and fiery moments over the years. These controversies have not only made headlines but also changed the way the game is played, viewed, and governed. From ball-tampering incidents to explosive player feuds, the biggest cricket controversies of all time have left a lasting mark on the sport’s legacy.
Let’s take a deep dive into the most unforgettable moments when the spirit of cricket was overshadowed by chaos, drama, and controversy.
1. Sandpapergate – Australia’s Ball-Tampering Scandal (2018)
Arguably the most infamous cricket controversy in modern times, the Sandpapergate scandal shook the cricketing world in 2018. During a Test match against South Africa, Australian opener Cameron Bancroft was caught on camera using sandpaper to alter the condition of the ball.
The fallout was massive. Captain Steve Smith, vice-captain David Warner, and Bancroft received heavy suspensions, and Australia’s image took a major hit. The incident sparked global outrage and forced Cricket Australia to reassess its culture and leadership.
2. Monkeygate – Harbhajan Singh vs Andrew Symonds (2008)
The Monkeygate scandal became one of the ugliest moments in India-Australia cricketing history. During the Sydney Test, Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh was accused of racially abusing Australian all-rounder Andrew Symonds, allegedly calling him a “monkey.”
The situation escalated into a diplomatic standoff between the two cricket boards. After a prolonged investigation and hearing, Harbhajan was fined but cleared of racial abuse charges. The incident remains one of the biggest cricket controversies ever involving racism allegations.
3. Bodyline Series – England vs Australia (1932–33)
One of the earliest and most controversial cricketing tactics emerged during the Bodyline series. The English team, led by Douglas Jardine, used fast, short-pitched bowling aimed at the bodies of Australian batters, especially the legendary Don Bradman, to neutralize their dominance.
The Australians considered the tactic dangerous and unsportsmanlike. The controversy created diplomatic tension and forced changes in cricket laws to protect batters from deliberate physical harm.
4. Match-Fixing Scandal – Hansie Cronje (2000)
The turn of the millennium brought a dark chapter for cricket when South African captain Hansie Cronje was caught in a match-fixing scandal. An Indian investigation revealed Cronje’s involvement with bookmakers, leading to a lifetime ban.
This scandal opened the floodgates, implicating several other international players. The match-fixing controversy became one of the worst stains on cricket’s integrity and led to the establishment of anti-corruption units in cricket boards worldwide.
5. The Underarm Bowling Incident – Australia vs New Zealand (1981)
In a One Day International between Australia and New Zealand, with six runs needed off the final ball, Australian captain Greg Chappell instructed his brother Trevor Chappell to bowl underarm to prevent the batter from hitting a six.
Though not illegal at the time, the tactic was widely condemned as against the spirit of the game. The incident sparked public outrage and led to a rule change banning underarm bowling in limited-overs cricket.
6. Daryl Hair and the Ball-Tampering Accusation – Pakistan vs England (2006)
In 2006, umpire Daryl Hair accused the Pakistan team of ball-tampering during a Test at The Oval. The team, led by Inzamam-ul-Haq, refused to take the field after the tea break in protest.
The match was awarded to England by forfeit — the first such instance in Test history. The ball-tampering controversy led to Hair being removed from the ICC’s Elite Panel of Umpires and caused a massive uproar in the cricketing community.
7. Ben Stokes Obstructing the Field Controversy (2015)
During an ODI between England and Australia, Ben Stokes was controversially given out for obstructing the field when he put his hand out to stop a throw from hitting him.
The dismissal sparked debate about the interpretation of the “obstructing the field” rule, with many arguing it went against the spirit of cricket. Though not as severe as others, it remains one of the more debated moments in recent years.
8. IPL Spot-Fixing Scandal (2013)
The Indian Premier League, known for its glitz and glamour, was rocked in 2013 by a spot-fixing scandal involving S. Sreesanth, Ajit Chandila, and Ankeet Chavan, all part of the Rajasthan Royals.
The scandal uncovered the darker side of franchise cricket, where betting syndicates and underworld connections were found to be influencing games. The BCCI took strict action, and Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals were suspended for two seasons.
9. Virat Kohli vs Steve Smith DRS Drama (2017)
During the Border-Gavaskar series in 2017, Australian captain Steve Smith was caught looking toward the dressing room for DRS guidance, a clear violation of rules.
Indian captain Virat Kohli accused Australia of repeatedly abusing the Decision Review System. While Smith apologized, the DRS controversy ignited tensions between the two cricketing giants and added fuel to their intense rivalry.
10. Mankading – Ashwin vs Jos Buttler (2019)
When Ravichandran Ashwin ran out Jos Buttler at the non-striker’s end in an IPL match, it reignited the age-old debate about “Mankading” — whether it’s a fair dismissal or against the spirit of the game.
Though legal under the rules, many former players criticized Ashwin, while others defended his decision. The incident sparked global debates on sportsmanship and ethics in cricket.
11. Zimbabwe Cricket’s Suspension by ICC (2019)
In a rare move, the International Cricket Council (ICC) suspended Zimbabwe Cricket due to political interference in the board’s functioning. It was a major blow to a Full Member nation and raised concerns about the autonomy of cricket boards worldwide.
The situation was eventually resolved, but it remains a significant governance-related controversy in cricket history.
12. Michael Slater vs David Warner – Commentary Controversy
While this may not be an on-field controversy, former Australian opener Michael Slater’s public criticism of David Warner during media appearances created a stir.
Accusations of personal misconduct, followed by heated public exchanges, brought unwelcome drama to Australia’s cricketing setup and highlighted tensions off the field.
13. India vs Sri Lanka 1996 World Cup Semi-Final Chaos
During the semi-final at Eden Gardens, with India collapsing in their chase, fans began rioting and throwing bottles onto the field. The match was abandoned, and Sri Lanka was awarded the win.
It was a shocking moment that exposed the extreme pressures of cricket fandom and stadium management in subcontinental venues.
14. Shakib Al Hasan’s On-Field Meltdown (2021)
Bangladesh star Shakib Al Hasan made headlines when he kicked and uprooted stumps during a Dhaka Premier League match in protest against umpiring decisions. The outburst went viral, earning him a ban and heavy criticism.
It was a rare display of on-field rage from a senior international player, highlighting frustrations within domestic cricket systems.
15. Kapil Dev’s Omission from 1984 Tour of Pakistan
Back in 1984, Indian cricket was rocked when then-captain Kapil Dev was dropped from the squad touring Pakistan. The decision led to public outcry and allegations of internal politics, favoritism, and bias in selection — themes that continue to stir controversy in Indian cricket.
Final Thoughts
From explosive ball-tampering scandals to moments that questioned the very spirit of the game, the biggest cricket controversies of all time have added a dramatic edge to the sport we love. While cricket is celebrated for its elegance and sportsmanship, these incidents remind us that even in the most dignified arenas, emotions, ego, and errors can take center stage.
These controversies have not only sparked debate but also led to reforms in rules, regulations, and cricketing culture. They are a part of the game’s history — moments that fans may regret, but will never forget.