Cricket, with its long history, has witnessed its fair share of contentious moments that have sparked debates and controversies across the globe. From disputed dismissals to contentious match outcomes, these instances have left an indelible mark on cricket’s narrative. Let’s delve into cricket’s most controversial umpiring decisions, dissecting the events that ignited discussions among fans and experts.
Muttiah Muralitharan called for ‘throwing the ball’, 1999
The Charlton and United Tri-Series between England, Sri Lanka, and Australia in 1998–1999 was one of the most controversial Test matches in Test cricket.
In the game, Muttiah Muralitharan was introduced to the attack in the sixteenth over. Umpire Ross Emerson, at square-leg, chose to call a no-ball on the youthful off-spinner for ‘throwing the ball’ after he bowled the fourth ball of the eighteenth over. In the match, Sri Lankan captain Arjuna Ranatunga asked his team to leave the field. Team management and the match referee interfered to have a full game.
Later, Muralitharan was given the all-clear by the ICC to resume his bowling career.
The Sydney Test 2008, most controversial umpiring
The Sydney Test between India and Australia in 2008 is infamous for the “monkey gate” controversy. But, it also garnered media attention for its controversial umpiring in cricket, which favored Australia mostly.
The Man of the Match, Andrew Symonds, was given not out several times during the Test. Umpire Steve Bucknor came under fire for his refusal to call MS Dhoni’s stumping appeal, which was eventually confirmed to be out on replays, and for failing to see an edge in Ishant Sharma’s ball.
Sachin Tendulkar Given Out Shoulder Before Wicket, 1999
Umpire Daryl Harper rendered a controversial call in the Indian second innings during their 1999 tour of Australia.
Sachin Tendulkar took the batting after Shane Warne removed Ravi Dravid from the game. Tendulkar had to deal with a short ball on Glenn McGrath’s third delivery of the next over. The ball unexpectedly stayed low when he ducked, hitting his shoulder. After an LBW appeal from the Australians, umpire Daryl Harper declared Tendulkar out.
India lost early wickets, including that of Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman, while they were chasing 387 runs.
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