2013 Year in Review: The biggest cricket controversies of the year

The Unique Chapter of Homework Assignments:

Mickey Arthur

Aside of the battering that India gave Australia in the Border-Gavaskar series held at the start of the season, the series would be better remembered for Mickey Arthur’s unique homework assignment following Australia’s loss in the first two Tests. Four prominent Australian cricketers – including vice-captain Shane Watson – lost their place in the squad in the third Test because of the lack of their dedication to submit the ‘homework assignment.’

The South African’s decision received unanimous condemnation from most Australian ex-players and coaches and he found himself unceremoniously sacked from his position, just a fortnight before their Ashes campaign, turning not just his reputation, but also Australia’s into a huge embarrassing spectacle.

The Umpiring Decision that ‘Should-have-never-been’:

Not Out!

Usually an umpire known for his impeccable decision-making on-field, Aleem Dar found himself facing the wrath of countless Australian fans and former players thanks to a glaring oversight in the first Ashes Test at Trent Bridge. Australia being left out with no challenges to review the decision saw Stuart Broad stay on at his crease without any compunction that further compounded the Australians’ Ashes misery and angst.