Recently, in an IPL 2024 match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), tensions flared as Virat Kohli found himself embroiled in a heated dispute with on-field umpires.
The incident occurred during the third over of the RCB innings when Virat mishit a full-toss from KKR’s fast bowler, Harshit Rana, straight back to the bowler.
Kohli, visibly displeased with his dismissal, believed that the delivery was above waist height, which would render it unfair as per the ICC Playing Conditions.
According to Law 41.7.1, any delivery above waist height of the striker standing upright at the popping crease is to be deemed unfair, regardless of its potential to cause physical harm. Upon Kohli’s request, the decision was referred to the third umpire, Michael Gough, for review.
However, the replays indicated that the ball was dipping and would have come down below Kohli’s waist had he been standing at his normal batting position. Consequently, Gough upheld the on-field decision, ruling the delivery as fair.
Angry Virat Kohli is back after that no ball 😭❤️😭❤️#RCBvsKKRhttps://t.co/5k6JvwOq6h
— Aarav (@sigma__male_) April 21, 2024
The ruling further favored the bowler as Kohli was found to be standing outside the batting crease at the time of contact with the ball. Replays confirmed that had Kohli been within the crease, the delivery would have still been considered fair, adding weight to the umpire’s decision.
Following the contentious decision, Kohli, accompanied by RCB skipper Faf Du Plessis, engaged in a heated exchange with the umpires. Kohli’s frustration was evident as he made his way back to the dugout, signaling his discontent with the decision.
The incident has sparked debates among fans and experts alike, with some supporting Kohli’s assertion of the delivery’s unfairness, while others commend the umpires for their adherence to the rules. Despite the disagreement, the match resumed, with both teams continuing their pursuit of victory in the IPL 2024 tournament.
As the tensions simmer down and the focus shifts back to on-field action, the controversy surrounding Kohli’s dismissal serves as a reminder of the intense match and scrutiny that characterizes the IPL 2024. With the IPL tournament in full swing, cricket enthusiasts can expect more thrilling encounters and contentious moments in the days to come.
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