In the fast-paced and adrenaline-fueled arena of T20 cricket, dismissals often occur in dramatic and unexpected ways. While bowled, caught, and LBW are the more common modes of dismissal, there exists a rare and intriguing form known as “obstructing the field.” In the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL), this dismissal has occurred sparingly but has left a lasting impression on cricket enthusiasts worldwide. Let’s explore three instances where batters were controversially given out obstructing the field in the IPL.
Ravindra Jadeja (CSK) vs RR, Chennai, 2024*:
In a recent encounter between the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and the Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Chennai in 2024, all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja became the latest addition to the list of batters dismissed obstructing the field in the IPL. Jadeja, known for his dynamic batting and electric fielding,
Jadeja was halfway down the pitch for the second run but Ruturaj Gaikwad wasn’t keen at all. Third man hurled it to Samson who caught the ball had a shy at the bowler’s end but the throw hits Jadeja. The third umpire’s view is that Jadeja was watching the ball and aware of where it was heading. So in his mind he’s convinced Jadeja deliberately changed direction. Was that the case though? Seemed like it was a natural angle that Jadeja was taking. Since he was turning back, he was obviously going to have a look at where the ball was heading. He has a polite enquiry with the umpire on seeing the giant screen display OUT and walks off. This is going to be controversial. Anyway, this was building with 2-3 miscommunications between the two batters. Jadeja in the first place didn’t have to rush for the second at all.
Yusuf Pathan (KKR) vs PWI, Ranchi, 2013:
During a match between the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and the Pune Warriors India (PWI) in Ranchi in 2013, Yusuf Pathan found himself at the center of a contentious dismissal. Pathan, known for his explosive batting, attempted to steal a quick single but was impeded by the bowler’s throw. In the process of evading the throw, Pathan was adjudged to have obstructed the field, much to the disbelief of fans and players alike.
Amit Mishra (DC) vs SRH, Vizag, 2019:
In a match between the Delhi Capitals (DC) and the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in Vizag in 2019, veteran leg-spinner Amit Mishra was involved in a rare and unfortunate dismissal. Mishra, attempting to protect his wicket, inadvertently blocked the path of the ball with his bat, leading to an appeal for obstructing the field. Despite Mishra’s protestations, the on-field umpires upheld the appeal, resulting in his dismissal.
These instances highlight the unpredictable nature of cricket and serve as a reminder of the multitude of ways in which a batsman can be dismissed in the sport. While obstructing the field dismissals are infrequent, they add a layer of intrigue and controversy to the game, sparking debates among fans and pundits alike. As the IPL continues to showcase the best of cricketing talent, one can only wonder when the next instance of a batter being given out obstructing the field will occur, further adding to the rich tapestry of the sport’s history.