Windies vs England: Shannon Gabriel warned for using abusive language

Shannon Gabriel has received a warning from the on-field umpires for using abusive language during day three of the third Test against England in St. Lucia. The incident took place during the second session of the day with England in firm command of the proceedings. Gabriel was seen being involved in a heated exchange with England captain Joe Root and his batting partner Joe Denly.

Although the mics did not catch Gabriel’s earlier comments, Root could be heard saying, “There’s nothing wrong with being gay.” While nothing is clear on what did the pacers say, speculations are that he had uttered a homophobic slur. Later, the on-field umpires were seen having a talk with Gabriel.

According to the Daily Telegraph, match referee Jeff Crowe was satisfied the umpires dealt with the matter on the field. As a result, Gabriel will face no further action. At the end of the day, Root spoke on the incident but refrained from revealing the details.

“Sometimes people say things on the field they might regret, but they should stay on the field,” said Root, who finished the day with his 16th Test hundred. “He’s a good guy who plays hard cricket and is proud to be in the position he is. The battle was a good contest, he’s had a wonderful series and he should be proud. I don’t want anything said in the middle to ruin what’s been a good Test series for him and his team.”

England on top

England, meanwhile, have taken a firm grip on the game. Riding on skipper Root’s 16th Test century, the visitors, who have already lost the series, ended the day with a commanding 448-run lead. Joe Denly (69) and Jos Buttler (56) also hit half-centuries as England ended day three 325-4, with Root unbeaten on 111.

The day had started on a poor note for England as they lost Rory Burns (10) and Keaton Jennings (23) cheaply before Root and Denly steadied the ship with a 74-run stand. Buttler and Root then added 107 runs for the fourth wicket to put England in the driver’s seat.

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