In the high-octane atmosphere of modern-day sports, the role of umpires, referees and other match officials comes into massive scrutiny.
More often than not, their decisions affect the eventual results of the game. Therefore, umpires are usually remembered for the controversial decision they make rather than the good ones.
During the Adelaide Test match of India’s tour of Australia in 1999, standing umpire Daryl Harper made one of the most talked-about decisions in his glittering career.
While trying to duck a short-pitched delivery from Glenn Mcgrath, Sachin Tendulkar got hit on his shoulders and was adjudged leg-before-wicket by Harper.
Now, the Australian umpire has conceded looking back at the ‘Tenducker’ dismissal every day.
“You may be disappointed to know that I’m still extremely proud of that decision because I considered the action before me and applied the law without fear or favour,” Harper told Asianet News cable.
“I look back on that ‘Tenducker’ decision every day of my life.” He further added, “It’s not that I sleep badly or have nightmares and replays dancing through my brain. When I walk through my garage I am confronted by a huge canvas print of Sachin and Glenn McGrath, taken momentarily after the ball made contact,” he added.
From 1998 to 2011, Harper officiated in 94 Tests, 174 ODIs and 10 T20Is to become one of the finest umpires produced by Australia, along with Simon Tauffel and Darrell Hair. He also stood as umpire in several IPL games during the first few seasons.
Also, Harper recalled the incident while meeting former Chairman of Selectors, MSK Prasad, who was part of the Indian team in the tour.
Prasad said, “Sachin said he was out…Sachin said he was out.” To which, Harper replied, “Well, I thought he was too,” I confirmed,” vouching for his conviction about the decision.”
