The only batter who looked in great touch against Australia in Perth became a victim of ‘poor third umpiring.’ KL Rahul, who got a chance as an opener, was left fuming as the star batter fought hard and scored 26 runs, looking much better compared to any other batter. However, one outside-off-stump delivery by Mitchell Starc sent him back to the pavilion.
The controversy began in the 23rd over when Rahul was beaten by a short-pitched delivery from Starc. The Australians believed the ball took an edge, but apparently Snicko suggested otherwise. Instead, it appeared that Rahul’s bat hit his pad, resulting in the noise detected by the technology.
Also not to forget, the on-field umpire, England’s Richard Kettleborough, initially gave a not-out decision. However, the TV umpire, Richard Illingworth, overturned it without asking for additional angles, making a decision in haste. Rahul, looked confident that the ball hadn’t touched his bat, had nothing go in his favour. The 32-year-old batter departed for 26 in the first innings of the Perth Test.
As expected, X erupted with reactions, with several cricketers criticising the third umpire’s decision. Check out the list of players and see who said!
Varun Aaron
“Looks like the third umpire is used to watching too many clips on fast forward!! Was in a tearing hurry to give @klrahul out without going through enough camera angles..
Shreevats Goswami
“Such a big series and you don’t have all the DRS angles to make a correct decision? Poor! Rahul will be gutted. Brilliant start & then undone by the lack of technology! Bat hit the pad & that’s where the spikes occur.
Kartik Murali
“Am still trying to figure this…the claim was we have million cameras when the test match started & just when u need the other cameras they are conveniently unavailable for KL’s decision.. it was such a big spike for maybe a feather if there was any… surprising”
Aakash Chopra
“Front on angle not available at the time of interception??? On-field umpire’s decision not-out. Was there conclusive evidence to overturn the decision? Bat hit the pad for sure… visible confirmation… then why not two spikes on the Ultra-Edge? Ridiculous umpiring from the box…”
Robbie Uthappa
“How a third umpire makes a decision without accessing all angles!! Poor!! Just Piss poor!!
Mpumelelo Mbangwa
“Oops! Got that wrong”
Wasim Jaffer
“Third umpire asked for another angle which wasn’t provided. I’d assume he’d only ask for another angle if he wasn’t sure. Then if he wasn’t sure, why did he overturn the on-field not out call? Poor use of technology and proper protocol not followed. KL hard done by. “
