WATCH: Sri Lankan Batsman’s Strange Way Of Getting Run Out By ‘Obstructing The Field’, Is It Right Umpiring?

Danushka Gunathilaka was given out in a controversial decision after the batsman mistakenly stepped over the ball, Pollard later apologizes.

Image Source: Twitter

West Indies vs Sri Lanka: A strange incident took place during the first ODI between WI and SL. Opener Danushka Gunathilaka was given out for ‘obstructing the field’ as he stepped on the ball after playing a defensive shot. Gunathilaka played a defensive shot and took a couple of steps to perhaps steal a quick single run, but as soon as the bowler came running at him, he quietly got back in his crease, in the process stepping on the ball.

The West Indies players including captain Pollard appealed for a wicket as they saw it as an instance of obstructing the field, the umpires agreed and Gunathilaka was given out. But was he really out? Watch the video below:

Do you think it was right to call him out in this scenario? A plethora of fans on Twitter took a stand against the incident. Many, including some ex-cricketers felt it was injustice on Gunathilaka’s part. Former WI Captain Darren Sammy also tweeted: “Don’t think that was willful at all. I wouldn’t appeal but hey Man”

When he got out, Gunathilaka had scored 55 runs and was looking good. Sri Lanka later only managed to score 232 which the West Indies side chased down after losing just two wickets.

Kieron Pollard later apologized to Gunathilaka for appealing for the wicket.

 

Courtesy: Twitter

But by then, the match was over. The second ODI between Sri Lanka and West Indies will be played on 12 March 2021 7 pm IST.