Pakistan vs South Africa: Umpires Decline Hit-Wicket Appeal Amidst Bizarre Controversy

On the final delivery of the third day of the second and final Test match between Pakistan and South Africa at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, a bizarre incident unfolded when wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan dislodged the bails after hitting the ball to the fielder at extra cover. The South African players appealed for a hit-wicket, but the umpires declined, leaving the visitors vexed. Despite a legitimate appeal, the match officials seemed to have already called 'over' before the incident occurred, resulting in Rizwan being declared safe.

Key Takeaways:

• Mohammad Rizwan dislodged the bails after hitting the ball to the fielder at extra cover, triggering a hit-wicket appeal from the South African players.
• The umpires declined the appeal, citing that the bails were dislodged after Rizwan had completed his shot and was walking away.
• According to the MCC Law 35.2, a batter cannot be given out if the stumps are broken after playing the delivery.
• The South African team was left vexed by the umpires' decision, with keeper Kyle Verreynne even having an animated chat with the on-field umpire, Sharfuddoula.
• Replays later showed that the fielder had not thrown the ball back into play when Rizwan dislodged the bails, supporting the legitimacy of the South African appeal.
• The incident highlights the complexity of the hit-wicket rule in cricket and the importance of accurate umpiring decisions.

Statistics:

• None

Sources:

• Hindustan Times, published by HT Digital Content Services with permission.