RCB vs PBKS: In IPL 2021, Royal Challengers Bangalore defeated Punjab Kings by 6 runs in a thrilling match yesterday. However, a DRS call from the third umpire in this match has sparked controversy. Opener Devdutt Padikkal was declared not out by the umpire off Ravi Bishnoi's bowling during Bangalore's innings, after which Punjab Captain KL Rahul decided to use DRS. Despite the clear spike observed in the UltraEdge, the third umpire had declared Padikkal as 'not out'. Many former cricketers have since expressed displeasure over the third umpire's decision. There have even been talks of dismissal of the third umpire after this controversial decision.
Devdutt Padikkal tried to hit a reverse sweep on a ball delivered by Punjab's Ravi Bishnoi during the eighth over of Bangalore's innings. However, he failed and the ball fell into the gloves of wicketkeeper and captain KL Rahul. Both Bishnoi and Rahul then made a strong appeal for a catch-out, which was rejected by the on-field umpire. Rahul then challenged the umpire's decision and decided to use DRS.
During the DRS, a spike could clearly be seen during UltraEdge as the ball hits the wicketkeeper's gloves. However, third umpire K Srinivasan still declared the batsman as 'not out'. Rahul also did not understand the TV umpire's decision and discussed it with on-field umpire Anantapadmanabhan.
What did the former cricketers say?
Former New Zealand all-rounder Scott Styris tweeted: "What a joke. The third umpire should be fired immediately."
Former India opener Akash Chopra tweeted, "After all, how was it not out?"
Punjab Kings also expressed surprise after this decision and tweeted, "What? There is a clear spike in the ultra edge, yet the third umpire sees it as 'not out'?"
Former India opener Krishnamachari Srikanth said, "This is very bad umpiring. In today's time with so many techniques available, such mistakes cannot be forgiven."