Rishabh Pant’s Dismissal in Mumbai Test Sparks Controversy
The dismissal of Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant in the fourth innings of the Mumbai Test has emerged as a contentious moment that potentially turned the tide of the match. Pant, who was batting well on 64 off 57 balls, was given out caught bat-pad, with the third umpire overturning the on-field umpire’s initial decision.
India Captain Rohit Sharma Expresses Uncertainty
India captain Rohit Sharma expressed his uncertainty over the correctness of the decision. >
“If we say something, it is not accepted well. But if there is not conclusive evidence, it has to stand with the umpire’s on-field decision. That is what I have been told. So I don’t know how that decision was overturned, since the umpire didn’t give him out,” Rohit said in the post-match press conference.
Pant’s dismissal came at a crucial juncture, with India chasing a target of 41 runs and placed at 106 for 6. New Zealand eventually won the match by 25 runs, completing a historic 3-0 series sweep.
DRS Technology Comes Under Scrutiny
The technology used in the Decision Review System (DRS) came under scrutiny, as the replays showed a spike on UltraEdge when the ball passed the bat, but the bat and pad were also in close proximity. Third umpire Paul Reiffel initially thought the spike could have been from the bat hitting the pad, but later changed his mind after further analysis.
New Zealand Captain Defends the Decision
New Zealand captain Tom Latham defended the decision, stating that the team heard two noises and decided to review the decision, leaving it in the hands of the umpires. >
“We can’t necessarily see the footage that the third umpire gets so that’s certainly out of our control in terms of what that may look like,” Latham said.
Rohit Sharma Believes Dismissal Was Crucial
Rohit Sharma believed Pant’s dismissal was a crucial moment in the game, as the left-hander was looking set to guide India to a famous victory. >
“That dismissal actually was very, very crucial from our point of view. Rishabh was really looking good at that point. And it felt like he will take us through. But it was an unfortunate dismissal,” Rohit said.
The debate surrounding the decision is likely to continue, with both teams and cricket fans seeking more clarity and consistency in the application of the DRS technology, especially in close-call decisions that can have a significant impact on the outcome of the match.
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