The Asia Cup 2023 has been a rollercoaster of cricketing emotions. In the latest chapter of this thrilling saga, India secured their spot in the finals by defeating Sri Lanka by 41 runs in the 2nd Super Four round fixture. However, amid the jubilation, a controversy emerged involving Indian batter Ishan Kishan and allegations of obstructing the field.
In a low-scoring thriller, India’s journey began with a promising start, but they encountered a rocky path towards the end. Batting first, the Men in Blue managed to put only 213 runs on the board, a total that was lower than expected.
Sri Lanka, the defending champions, were determined to continue their winning streak, but the Indian bowlers had other plans. The Island Nation’s batters lost wickets at regular intervals and were eventually restricted to 172 runs in 41.3 overs. This loss marked the end of Sri Lanka’s impressive 13-match winning streak.
After the game, a video clip went viral, sparking a debate among fans. The video captured a moment in the 25th over where fielder Sadeera Samarawickrama threw the ball at the keeper’s end. However, the ball unexpectedly went towards Ishan Kishan, who instinctively caught it to avoid injury and promptly threw it back to the bowler. Sadeera Samarawickrama quickly apologized for the errant throw, and even Sri Lanka’s skipper, Dasun Shanaka, expressed regret for the mishap.
While most cricket enthusiasts dismissed the incident as accidental and devoid of any malicious intent, a section of fans believed that Ishan Kishan’s actions amounted to obstruction of the field. They argued that Sri Lanka should have appealed against Kishan’s actions.
Spirit of cricket! Sri Lanka didn't appeal when Ishan Kishan could have been given out obstructing the field. Dasun Shanaka is a gem, this nation is something else 🇱🇰♥️ #AsiaCup2023 #INDvSL #INDvPAK pic.twitter.com/nG2KZybRUX
— Shahid Akhtar (@rolex9p) September 12, 2023
The controversy found its resolution in the MCC’s Laws of Cricket, specifically Law 37.2. According to this law, a batter cannot be given out obstructing the field if the obstruction is accidental, made to avoid injury, or made to lawfully guard one’s wicket. In this context, Ishan Kishan’s actions were well within the boundaries of the law.
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India’s triumph over Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup 2023 Super Four fixture marked a significant milestone on their journey to the finals. However, it was not without its share of controversy, with Ishan Kishan’s fielding incident causing a stir among fans. Ultimately, the MCC’s Laws of Cricket clarified that Kishan’s actions were not in violation, putting an end to the debate.
