Xtra Time Web Desk: In a dramatic turn of events during the IPL 2024 match between RCB and KKR at Eden Gardens on Sunday, April 21, Virat Kohli found himself at the centre of controversy and frustration. The RCB skipper was left seething after being given out in the 3rd over of the chase, with the team pursuing a challenging target of 223 runs.
Kohli, who had been in blistering form, had already amassed 18 runs off just 6 balls, including a spectacular flick into the stands off Mitchell Starc. However, his innings came to an abrupt halt in a bizarre manner when he was caught out by a slower delivery from Harshit Rana, the young KKR bowler. The dismissal raised eyebrows, as Kohli, along with many others, struggled to comprehend what had transpired on the field. Replays showed that Kohli had been caught off guard by the lack of pace in the full toss, resulting in a leading edge that was safely pouched by Rana.
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Despite Kohli’s reluctance to accept the decision, the on-field umpires referred the matter to the third umpire for confirmation. Tensions mounted as replays were scrutinized, revealing that Kohli had been standing outside the popping crease in an attempt to counter early swing. Additionally, ball-tracking technology indicated that the delivery would have passed below Kohli’s waist height at the popping crease. The use of ball-tracking technology, which records the waist height of players at the popping crease, further added to the complexity of the situation. Although Kohli’s bat had made contact with the ball above the waist height, his positioning outside the crease played a decisive role in the umpire’s decision.
Frustrated by the outcome, Kohli engaged in animated discussions with the on-field umpires before reluctantly making his way back to the dressing room. His disappointment was evident as he exchanged words with teammates in the dugout, highlighting the intensity of the moment.
WHAT DO ICC RULES SAY ABOUT WAIST-HIGH NO-BALLS?
According to rule 41.7 of ICC regulations ‘Bowling of dangerous and unfair non-pitching deliveries’: Any delivery, which passes or would have passed, without pitching, above waist height of the striker standing upright at the popping crease, is to be deemed to be unfair, whether or not it is likely to inflict physical injury on the striker. If the bowler bowls such a delivery the umpire shall immediately call and signal No ball.
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The ICC rule clearly mentions that the ball has to be above the waist height of the striker standing upright at the popping crease. In Sunday’s instance, Kohli was well outside the popping crease.
It was a huge blow for RCB as they lost Virat Kohli early, but fifties from Rajat Patidar and Will Jacks kept them alive in the 223-run chase at Eden Gardens.