Table of Contents
The third One Day International (ODI) between Sri Lanka and India held at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo was marred by controversy, particularly surrounding the catch taken by Shubman Gill, leading to the dismissal of Kusal Mendis. The incident has ignited a debate among cricket enthusiasts, raising questions about the interpretation of the rules governing catches at the boundary.
Did Shubman Gill’s foot make contact with the boundary rope?
The incident took place during the 49th over of Sri Lanka’s innings when Mendis attempted to pull a short ball from Kuldeep Yadav. The shot was high and aimed towards deep mid-wicket, where Gill was stationed. As he leapt to take the catch, Gill’s momentum carried him towards the boundary. In a split-second decision, he managed to throw the ball back into play just before regaining his balance to complete the catch.
The on-field umpires referred the decision to the third umpire, who scrutinized multiple angles of the replay. Despite the lack of conclusive evidence that Gill had touched the boundary while in possession of the ball, the third umpire ruled the catch valid, leading to Mendis’ dismissal for 53 runs. This decision sparked immediate reactions from both teams, with Sri Lankan players visibly upset and Indian players celebrating the wicket.
Here’s the video:
A brilliant catch from Shubman Gill, as Kusal Mendis walks back 🤯
Watch #SLvIND LIVE NOW on #SonyLIV 🍿 pic.twitter.com/FJqLNZCLz0
— Sony LIV (@SonyLIV) August 7, 2024
Also READ: ICC ODI Rankings – Rohit Sharma climbs to third spot; Babar Azam maintains his top position
Reactions and controversy
The controversy surrounding the catch has drawn significant attention, with many questioning the clarity of the rules regarding boundary catches. Critics argue that the decision was inconsistent and that the lack of definitive evidence should have led to a “not out” call.
Social media erupted with mixed reactions, with some fans supporting Gill’s effort while others believed the catch should not have been awarded. Comments ranged from admiration for Gill’s athleticism to outright disbelief at the decision, with many calling it a “borderline” case of a fair catch.
SL cricket is not happy with Gill's catch 😭 pic.twitter.com/hfBG7dYHWq
— Saiman (@Jixo780) August 7, 2024
Shubham Gill just made that look so easy ..
Inch away for a Sixer..Good catch..
Look at the sequence of these catch.:#IndiaAtOlympics #INDvsSL pic.twitter.com/WMSGKPgAB8
— Rahul jain (@rahuljain1386) August 7, 2024
Shubman Gill's catch today of Mendis.#SLvIND pic.twitter.com/cazeY0T0Kp
— Vespucci_Kookaburra (@StealthWorx) August 7, 2024