The T20 World Cup 2024 has already started, and here we are all set to witness 55 thrilling matches. It’s right to say that, looking back at the previous editions, we are all set to witness lots of banter as well. As this time, there are 20 teams participating, and it’s clear that in this edition, we are going to see many controversies since all the teams are eyeing the T20 World Cup trophy.
Speaking of banter and verbal exchanges, there were numerous incidents that took place in the previous editions. Let’s take a look at the three most heated controversies in the T20 World Cup over the years.
No-ball drama in the India vs Pakistan game at the 2022 T20 World Cup
The India vs Pakistan game in the 2022 T20 World Cup was arguably the best game of that edition. Happened in Melbourne, Australia, where we witnessed Virat Kohli’s redemption after coming from a run drought. He played one of the best innings of his career. Although the game was filled with various controversies as well. One major controversy happened in the last over of the game when India needed 16 runs off the last over bowled by Pakistan spinner Mohammad Nawaz.
The fourth ball he delivered was turned into a full-toss, which Virat Kohli cleaned up for a six. Also, the batter looked towards the square leg umpire, as he believed that the ball was above waist height. The umpire signaled a no-ball for height without getting confirmation from the third umpire.
Also, the drama didn’t stop there as Kohli was bowled off the free-hit delivery. But the ball went back to the third man, and India ran three! As per the law, they can run. But that didn’t suit the Pakistan players at the time, and this incident became the most talked-about incident from this game.
Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh rivalry
The Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh game is nothing but a rivalry between two Asian teams, whether it is in the Nidhas Trophy or bilateral series. However, when this rivalry occurs in the T20 World Cup, its value doubles. In the 2021 T20 World Cup, which took place in the UAE, we witnessed an ugly confrontation between Liton Das and Lahiru Kumara.
Sri Lanka won the toss and decided to bowl first. They dismissed Bangladesh opener Liton Das in the fifth over, thanks to Lahiru Kumara. As Das walked back to the dressing room, Kumara confronted him, and soon the pair almost created an ugly fight. When it seemed things were getting out of control, other players had to stepped in to control the situation.
Yuvraj Singh vs Andrew Flintoff: Heated yet historic chat
Looking back at history, in the 2007 T20 World Cup, the game between India and England saw one of the most talked-about banter. Which happened between India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh and England fast bowler Andrew Flintoff.
Speaking more about the backdrop, since it was a must-win clash for both teams, no one wanted to fall apart. Andrew Flintoff started the heated discussion with Yuvraj Singh. Which India’s star all-rounder not only responded to with his mouth but also with the bat. Stuart Broad had to pay the price for Flintoff’s actions. As southpaw pulled Broad for six sixes out of the park. And became the first batter to hit six sixes in an over in T20 international cricket.