World Cup 2019: Former Indian cricketers react to Rohit Sharma’s controversial dismissal

Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni’s half-centuries along with Hardik Pandya’s brisk 46 propelled India to a competitive total of 268 runs after opting to bat first. While the Windies also bowled decently on a slow pitch but Rohit Sharma’s controversial dismissal was the talk of the town after the first innings came to an end in Manchester. The former Indian cricketers were not at all convinced with the decision and felt that the benefit of the doubt should’ve gone to the batsman.

The incident happened in the sixth over when Kemar Roach angled the ball in from length while bowling from wide of the crease. Rohit was surprised with the movement and was strangled while playing the shot. There was a big gap between the bat and pad and the ball went to the keeper through that gap. The wicket-keeper Shai Hope collected and went up in appeal confidently along with the bowler.

The umpire, however, wasn’t convinced and didn’t raise the finger. Jason Holder went for a review and the ultra edge showed the spike when the ball passed the bat. But at the same time, the ball was close to the pad and there wasn’t any conclusive evidence to overturn the on-field decision. However, the third umpire was quick to give his decision and was convinced to give Rohit Sharma out which shocked everyone.

Bhajji, Balaji, Irfan and others react

Meanwhile, the former Indian cricketers who are working as experts for Star Sports were not at all happy with the decision. While Irfan Pathan felt that there was a clear gap between the ball and bat, Lakshmipathy Balaji wasn’t convinced as well. “There was clear gap between ball and bat, so it was clear not-out,” Irfan said while Balaji remarked, “I am not too convinced.”

Harbhajan Singh, on the other hand, was of the opinion that the benefit of doubt should’ve gone to Rohit Sharma. “After watching replays, we thought it was not-out, the benefit of doubt should go to the batsman,” he added while Parthiv Patel said, “The replays weren’t conclusive, so the on-field decision should’ve stayed.” The former cricketer Aakash Chopra also echoed similar sentiments on the matter.