Danushka Gunathilaka was given for obstructing the field in a one-day match against the West Indies.© AFP
Sri Lankan batsman Danushka Gunathilaka was ruled out for “obstructing the field” during the first ODI against the West Indies in Antigua on Wednesday. The incident took place in the 21st over of the innings when Gunathilaka played a ball from Kieron Pollard and set for a run before changing his mind and almost stopping mid-pitch. However, the ball fell too low near Gunathilaka’s leg and, while retreating towards the crease, threw the ball away from Sri Lankan opener Pollard, who was attempting in the area.
Obstruction or not? pic.twitter.com/AblpoGG9rY
– Rahul (@ RahulSadhu009) March 10, 2021
Pollard was disappointed by Gunathilaka’s antics and appealed against the batsman to obstruct the field.
On-field umpire Joe Wilson referred the call to the third umpire, giving a soft signal of “out”.
The third umpire, on the basis of the review, admitted that Gunathilak’s actions were a disruptive obstacle in the field and dismissed the batsman.
The decision sparked some controversy when Ian Bishop called one of the commentators in the air “unfortunate” and “harsh”.
Promoted
Former Australian cricketer Tom Moody did not agree that this was a Villain interruption on Gunathilaka’s side.
“Willful interruptions” There was no way that willful … #Shocker #WIvSL
– Tom Moody (@TomMoodyCricket) March 10, 2021
Former West Indies captain Darren Sammy said, “Don’t think it’s all right.”
Do not think that there was strong will on everyone. I will not appeal but hey
– Daren Sammy (@ darensammy88) March 10, 2021
Clause 37.1.1 of the ICC Playing Conditions states that a batsman may be given to obstruct the field “he shall attempt to interrupt or distract the fielding side by word or action.”
Gunathilaka smashed 55 runs for 61 runs before being dismissed. He hit seven fours and shared a 105-run partnership with captain Dimuth Karunaratne.
Topics mentioned in this article
.
Leave a Reply