10 Shameful incidents that put the game to disgrace

5. India vs Sri Lanka 1996 WC SF at Eden Gardens suspended

The World Cup semi-final between India and Sri Lanka at the Eden Gardens had to be suspended due to crowd disturbance. Sri Lanka was awarded the game according to the rules. It all happened when the hosts led by Mohammad Azharuddin were chasing a total of 252 runs to make it to the final of the tournament.

Thanks to Sachin Tendulkar, India started off well and were sitting pretty at 98/1 after 20 overs. The target seemed well within reach and even the crowd was enjoying the proceedings. However, Sachin, on 65 was stumped off Sanath Jayasuriya and this is where it all began.

India collapsed suddenly like a pack of cards and were soon reduced to 120/8 with only Vinod Kambli in the middle as a recognised batsman. 15.5 overs were still in left in the innings but the crowd lost its patience and they started throwing bottles, cans, plastic bags on the ground. Sri Lanka captain Arjun Ranatunga brought it to umpire’s notice while also refusing to take the field.

After several minutes of drama, the match referee Clive Lloyd decided to award the match to Sri Lanka by default as the game didn’t start again. Vinod Kambli was left in tears after the match was called off.