PAK vs SA: The game of cricket is often seen as a gentleman’s game, but every once in a while, controversies arise, challenging this notion. The recent match between Pakistan and South Africa in the ongoing ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 has become a hotbed of debate, and former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh isn’t shying away from voicing his opinions.
A Crucial Match:
In the recent face-off between Pakistan and South Africa, the Proteas managed to secure a victory by a slender margin of just one wicket. This defeat has placed Pakistan’s semi-final dreams on a precarious edge, demanding flawless performance in the upcoming matches and some luck with other match outcomes.
The Controversial Decision:
PAK vs SA: What’s ruffled feathers in the cricketing world was a decisive moment in the match. Pakistan seemed on the brink of bowling out South Africa when a contentious decision by the umpire turned the tables. The disappointment wasn’t limited to Pakistani players or fans; Harbhajan Singh, a veteran from the Indian cricket team, took to social media to question the umpiring decision vocally.
The Umpiring Dilemma:
As South Africa neared its target, Pakistan’s Haris Rauf delivered a ball that seemed to trap South African player Tabrez Shamsi leg-before wicket (LBW). The subsequent appeal by the Pakistani side was turned down by ground umpire Alex Wharf.
DRS Drama:
PAK vs SA: Not willing to give in, the Pakistani team invoked the Decision Review System (DRS). While the technology showed the ball grazing the stumps, the controversial ‘umpire’s call’ meant that the original decision stood. This means, if initially declared out, the decision would have favored Pakistan, given the same DRS result.
Harbhajan’s Outcry:
This episode didn’t sit well with Harbhajan Singh. Taking to platform X, he called out the International Cricket Council (ICC) to reconsider such rules. Harbhajan’s contention was clear: if the ball is hitting the stumps, why should an umpire’s preliminary judgment influence the final decision, especially when there’s technology to assist? In his words, “Pakistan had to face defeat here due to bad umpiring and bad rules. ICC should change this rule. If the ball hits the stump, it should be out, irrespective of the initial decision. Why bother with technology if not to get the most accurate outcome?”
PAK vs SA: The debate around the ‘umpire’s call’ isn’t new, but with influential voices like Harbhajan Singh chiming in, perhaps it’s time for the ICC to revisit and reassess its stance.
Image Credit – timesofindia
