Iyer Controversial Catch: In a thrilling encounter between India and Australia in the 2nd ODI, the spotlight was on Sean Abbott’s contentious catch attempt, which left cricket fans divided and drew comparisons to a previous incident involving Mitchell Starc during The Ashes. The third umpire’s decision to grant Shreyas Iyer a reprieve after Abbott’s catch attempt sparked a heated debate. Let’s delve into the details of this gripping cricket controversy.
The Catch That Ignited Controversy
During the 31st over of the match, Sean Abbott bowled a deceptive full-toss to Shreyas Iyer. The right-hander attempted to play the ball to the leg side but could only manage a scoop. Abbott, displaying incredible athleticism, dived forward in an apparent attempt to complete a spectacular catch.
The Crucial Moment
Initially, it seemed that Sean Abbott had completed a clean catch. However, the third umpire, Karumanaseri Narayanaiyer Ananthapadmanabhan, intervened, requesting a closer examination of the incident. This decision set the stage for a contentious turn of events.
The Controversial Decision
After thoroughly reviewing multiple replays, the third umpire made a surprising call – Shreyas Iyer was declared “not out.” The reason behind this controversial decision was the revelation, upon closer examination, that the ball had grazed the ground while in Abbott’s possession. According to cricket’s established rules, for a catch to be valid, the fielder must maintain complete control over the ball, ensuring it doesn’t touch the ground during the process of taking the catch.
Mixed Reactions
This decision sent shockwaves through the stadium and divided fans of both teams. While some commended the umpire’s decision as a demonstration of precise officiating, others vehemently criticized it, arguing that Sean Abbott had displayed full control while taking the catch.
Déjà Vu for Australia
This incident eerily resembled a similar catch controversy involving Australia’s Mitchell Starc during The Ashes. In that instance, Starc appeared to have caught Ben Duckett at fine leg, but the ball’s contact with the ground during the catch led to Duckett’s reprieve.
Former Australian wicketkeeper Brad Haddin, commenting on the situation, expressed amazement at seeing such incidents occur twice in just a few months. He acknowledged the incredible effort displayed by Sean Abbott but also pointed out that attention to detail had let Australia down in both cases.
The Aftermath
Interestingly, Shreyas Iyer, who was given a second chance, went on to score an impressive 105 off 90 balls. Abbott, however, did not let the controversy affect his performance and soon claimed Iyer’s wicket with a well-deserved catch in the deep by Matt Short.
