Former Indian Test cricketer Harbhajan Singh has raised concerns about the quality of umpiring and cricketing laws during the match against South Africa, stating that Pakistan paid dearly for poor decision-making and inconsistent application of the rules.
In a message shared on the social networking site “X,” Harbhajan Singh called for the International Cricket Council (ICC) to consider revising and improving the existing cricketing regulations. He emphasized the need for a more consistent and fair application of the rules to ensure a level playing field for all teams.
Harbhajan Singh pointed out that if the ball hits the stumps, it should be given out, whether by the on-field umpire or through technology. He questioned the utility of technology if the existing rules are not consistently followed.
The match against South Africa in the ICC World Cup 2023 witnessed a nail-biting finish, with South Africa needing just 8 runs to win on the last ball of the 46th over. Pakistan required only one wicket to secure victory.
At that crucial juncture, Pakistan’s Haris Rauf bowled a delivery to South African batter Tabraiz Shamsi, and the ball hit Shamsi’s leg pad, prompting a strong appeal from the Pakistani team. The on-field umpire, however, deemed it not out, leading Pakistan to call for a review.
Upon review, it was apparent that Haris Rauf’s delivery was indeed hitting the stumps. However, the on-field umpire’s decision stood, and Pakistan was left frustrated by the umpiring call, despite the clear evidence provided by the review.
Bad umpiring and bad rules cost Pakistan this game.. @ICC should change this rule .. if the ball is hitting the stump that’s out whether umpire gave out or not out doesn’t matter.. otherwise what is the use of technology??? @TheRealPCB vs #SouthAfrica #worldcup
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) October 27, 2023
Had the umpire given Shamsi out on that ball, Pakistan would have emerged victorious. Even the review process upheld the not out decision, leaving questions about the consistency of decision-making in cricket.
It is important to note that in the ICC World Cup match, South Africa clinched victory by just one wicket, achieving the target of 271 runs set by Pakistan. The intense contest and the controversial umpiring decisions have sparked debates and discussions among cricket enthusiasts, highlighting the need for greater accuracy and consistency in the sport’s officiating.
Harbhajan Singh’s call for a review of cricketing laws and the improvement of umpiring standards resonates with the sentiments of many cricket fans, who want to see a fair and transparent application of the rules, ensuring that the spirit of the game is upheld at all times.
