Ishan Kishan, the Indian cricketer, found himself at the center of controversy as he attempted a dismissal reminiscent of Alex Carey‘s famous move against Jonny Bairstow in the Ashes.
Kishan’s action received backlash from fans on social media, reviving discussions surrounding the spirit of cricket. The incident took place during the first Test match between India and the West Indies in Dominica.
It occurred when Ravindra Jadeja bowled the final delivery of his 14th over to Jason Holder. The delivery, short and outside off, prompted Holder to attempt a cut shot, but he failed to make contact.
Behind the stumps, Kishan swiftly collected the ball and waited for a moment before whipping off the bails as Holder momentarily lifted his foot.
Ishan Kishan tries to replicate a dismissal similar to Jonny Bairstow’s against Jason Holder
https://twitter.com/niharivskorma/status/1680028306190614528?s=46
With an appeal and a pointed finger directed towards the leg umpire, Kishan sought a wicket. However, his efforts were in vain as the umpire had already called it over, rendering the ball dead and denying the dismissal.
This incident closely resembled the controversial dismissal that occurred during the second Ashes Test between England and Australia. In that match, Bairstow ducked a shorter delivery, only for Carey to collect the ball and throw it towards the stumps, dislodging the bails.
The Australian team immediately appealed, and after reviewing the replays. The TV umpire confirmed that Bairstow had been out of his crease before the on-field umpire had called it over.
While both dismissals were technically within the rules of the game, they sparked widespread debate regarding the spirit of cricket. The discussion extended beyond the teams involved, with fans, cricket veterans, and legends expressing their viewpoints on social media.
The laws of cricket specify that a ball is considered dead when it is “finally settled in the hands of the wicketkeeper or the bowler” (Law 20.1.1.1).
Furthermore, it is deemed dead when the fielding side and both batsmen at the wicket no longer consider it in play (Law 20.1.2). Although Kishan’s attempt was legal, critics argued that it went against the spirit of the game.
They emphasized the importance of fair play and sportsmanship, suggesting that such dismissals were unsporting and went beyond the intended scope of the laws. The incident reignited discussions on social media platforms, with fans and experts sharing their contrasting opinions.
Some believed that players should adhere strictly to the laws and exploit any opportunities within them, while others advocated for a more ethical approach to the game. As the debate continues, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing need to strike a balance between following the laws of cricket and upholding the spirit of fair play.
The incident involving Ishan Kishan and the subsequent discussions further highlighted the importance of maintaining the integrity of the game while allowing room for sportsmanship and ethical conduct on the field.
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