Explained: Was Mitchell Starc's controversial no-ball call DC vs RR Super Over correct? Here's what the rule says

Did Mitchell Starc overstep in the Super Over vs RR? Here's what the rulebook says. (Photo: JioHotstar)

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 match between the Delhi Capitals (DC) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) featured a lot of drama in the Super Over. After giving up a four to Shimron Hetmyer, Mitchell Starc was bowling under pressure. On the fourth delivery, he produced a low full toss outside off to Riyan Parag.

After Parag cut the delivery for four, the umpire ruled it a no-ball after the siren sounded. Everyone started talking after that, which gave RR a free hit.

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The replay showed that Starc's rear foot touched the return crease. Following its display on the large screen, he was observed conversing with the umpire. Regarding the call, many fans and even analysts were unsure. Former New Zealand cricketer Simon Doull even said on air, “I don’t think it’s a no-ball. You’re allowed to touch the line.”

The rule states: “The bowler’s back foot must land within and not touching the return crease appertaining to his/her stated mode of delivery.”

This regulation was put in place to prevent bowlers from going too wide and creating strange angles. This law is very important in cases like Mitchell Starc's, where he was bowling from around the wicket.

Starc maintained composure and produced an outstanding Super Over, giving up just 11 runs and securing a vital run-out despite the commotion surrounding the no-ball. The Delhi Capitals won when KL Rahul and Tristan Stubbs coolly chased down the mark, striking a four and a six.

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Abishek Porel's consistent 49 and late bursts from Axar Patel (34 off 14) and Stubbs (34 not out off 18) had helped DC reach 188/5 earlier in the game. With fifties from Nitish Rana and Yashasvi Jaiswal, RR appeared to be on track throughout the chase.

But after forcing a Super Over with a mere 9-run defense in the last over, Starc's late-game genius reversed the tide of the match. His winning spells earned him the title of Player of the Match.