"It was a shocker ...": Controversial umpiring decision sparks debate in eliminator between RCB and RR

Controversial decision sparks debate (Source: X)

Karthik was given out LBW during the RCB vs RR match in Ahmedabad. However, Karthik received a significant reprieve when the third umpire overturned the on-field umpire's decision, denying Avesh Khan a double strike and Karthik's LBW dismissal. Third umpire Anil Chaudhary's decision surprised everyone, bringing another contentious umpiring call in the IPL 2024 into the spotlight and sparking controversy.

The incident occurred in the 15th over when RCB batsman Dinesh Karthik was trapped plumb in front by Avesh Khan. However, Karthik promptly opted for a review.

It was a shocker .. these mistakes shouldn’t happen at this level .. https://t.co/lFmzZJ07HT

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— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) May 22, 2024

Karthik attempted a shot across the line before the ball struck him on the pad. A significant spike on UltraEdge indicated potential contact, yet discerning whether it was a bat hitting pad or the inside edge proved challenging.

Bat hit pad, also DK looked hesitant to review as he knew he was out. Third umpire got it wrong again. #RCBvRR #Eliminator #IPL2024 pic.twitter.com/psudjyMqbv

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— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) May 22, 2024

Given the proximity of the ball to the inside edge and the possibility of deviation, the third umpire concluded that the bat was indeed involved.

However, RR mentor Kumar Sangakkara appeared unconvinced. He swiftly rose from the dugout and approached the fourth umpire for further clarification.

There was no bat. If there was, Dinesh would have taken DRS straight away.

— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) May 22, 2024

Commentator Ravi Shastri also voiced his dissatisfaction over the umpire's decision, saying it was completely unfair to RR.

"Dinesh Karthik was clearly out. Completely unfair to RR here. Umpire should have checked the review 4-5 times before giving the decision," Shastri said on air.

Bat hit pad, also DK looked hesitant to review as he knew he was out. Third umpire got it wrong again. #RCBvRR #Eliminator #IPL2024 pic.twitter.com/psudjyMqbv

— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) May 22, 2024

Former England players Kevin Pietersen and Michael Vaughan criticised the decision, emphasising that these mistakes shouldn't happen at this level.

This season has seen its fair share of questionable calls, fuelling the ongoing debate around officiating standards in the tournament.