A significant controversy unfolded on Friday during India’s opening match against New Zealand in the Women’s T20 World Cup at the Dubai International Stadium. Amelia Kerr was controversially called back to the crease despite being run out by India captain Harmanpreet Kaur, igniting a heated argument between the Indian team and the umpires.
The incident occurred on the final ball of the 14th over when Kerr played a length ball from Deepti Sharma towards long-off, attempting a single. As the New Zealand batters opted for a second run, Harmanpreet collected the ball and threw it directly to wicketkeeper Richa Ghosh, who successfully completed the run-out of Kerr.
India erupted in celebration as Kerr started heading back to the pavilion, only to be halted by the third umpire. An initially perplexed Harmanpreet quickly turned furious, approaching the umpire for an explanation, which revealed that the ball was deemed “dead.”
The India captain engaged in a lengthy discussion with the match officials, refusing to accept the decision. Head coach Amul Mazumdar, equally baffled, joined Harmanpreet and other coaches in voicing their concerns to the third umpire. After a tense exchange, the players were instructed to resume play.
Just two deliveries after Kerr’s controversial reprieve, she was dismissed by Renuka Thakur. Attempting to hit a fuller delivery over extra cover, Kerr ended up getting caught by Pooja Vastrakar.
Earlier in the match, New Zealand captain Sophie Devine won the toss and chose to bat first. The opening pair of Suzie Bates and Plimmer formed a solid 50-run partnership before India struck back with two quick wickets post-powerplay. New Zealand finished their innings at 161/4, bolstered by a stellar unbeaten 57 from Devine, which included seven boundaries off 36 balls.
