In an unexpected turn of events during the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), the third umpire, Richard Illingworth, found himself stuck in an elevator, causing a six-minute delay on Day 3.

As the players were set to resume play after the lunch break, on-field umpires Joel Wilson and Michael Gough were informed that Illingworth was yet to return to his viewing box. The Englishman, accompanied by Channel Seven host Mel McLaughlin, became trapped in one of the MCG’s iconic lifts while making his way back to his designated seat from the dining area.

Illingworth, who had previously experienced a similar situation in South Africa, had to enlist McLaughlin’s help to contact her network’s director and inform them of the delay. Despite the inconvenience, Illingworth maintained a light-hearted perspective, stating, “It is slightly embarrassing, to say the least, but with modern technology, sometimes that occurs with lifts.”

Australian opener David Warner and others were amused upon discovering the reason for the delay, with reserve umpire Phillip Gillespie rushing to substitute as the third official. The Melbourne crowd grew restless, and chants filled the stadium as the delay extended.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan provided insights, saying, “I know the lift. I know exactly which one. It’s a slow lift. It could be a while here. Clearly the lunch was pretty good, because he had a lot of it.”

After six minutes, Illingworth finally escaped the elevator, offering a sheepish wave to his fellow umpires before play resumed. His misadventure left players and spectators alike in good spirits, adding a touch of humor to the Boxing Day Test.

Cricket fans can be assured that Illingworth has learned his lesson, opting for the stairs moving forward. The incident, while causing a brief delay, provided an amusing interlude in the ongoing cricket action at the MCG.