Indiathe journey of Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 got off to a tough start with a disappointing 58-run defeat New Zealand. The match in Dubai was marred by a controversial stoppage decision that sparked heated debate and questions about the interpretation of the rules.
The one-sided encounter ended in controversy
New Zealand set a target of 160/4 with their first innings Sophie Devine‘s unbeaten 57 is noteworthy. India’s chase was derailed Rosemary Mair‘s 4-wicket hunt and they were finally bowled out for 102. However, the match will be remembered more for a controversial incident during the 14th over of the first innings.
Amelia KerrBatting for New Zealand, he played one shot to long-off and went for a single. Harmanpreet Kaurentering the pitch for long, he believed the ball was dead and returned it to the bowler. But Kerr saw an opportunity and attempted a second run. He eventually ran out, but by then the referee had already signaled it was over.
India appealed for a run and even Kerr himself conceded the dismissal. However, the umpires ruled in favor of New Zealand, declaring the ball dead and the run void. The decision sparked a heated exchange between Harmanpreet and the umpires and highlighted the confusion over the interpretation of the rules.
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Ravichandran Ashwin’s reaction to the fiasco
The incident quickly attracted widespread attention, with many questioning the referees’ decision and the clarity of the rules. Veteran Indian all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin although he turned to social media to express his concern, he later deleted his post.
Ashwin tweeted, “It was already called before the start of the second run. Whose fault is it really? @prithinarayanan,” reflected the confusion and frustration over the incident. Although his post has since been deleted, it has sparked further discussion and debate about the rules and their enforcement.
India’s way ahead in the global event
Despite the defeat and controversy, India’s campaign is far from over. Harmanpreet admitted his team’s shortcomings in the opening match and highlighted the need for improvement.
“We didn’t play our best cricket today, we have to think about what areas we need to improve going forward. Now every game is important and we have to play our best cricket,” he said.
The controversial run-out decision may have overshadowed India’s performance in the match, but it also highlighted the need for clarity and consistency in the interpretation of the rules. As the tournament progresses, India will be keen to put this incident behind them and focus on their performances on the field.
Also READ: Women’s T20 World Cup 2024: Team India angered by umpires’ controversial stoppage decision on Amelia Kerr
This article was originally published here WomenCricket.coma Cricket Times company.
