During Tuesday’s match between Rajasthan Royals and Delhi Capitals, controversy arose when Royals’ captain, Sanju Samson, was dismissed under contentious circumstances. Samson had been playing brilliantly for the Royals, scoring 86 runs off just 45 deliveries when he hit Mukesh Kumar for a powerful shot towards long off. Shai Hope took a superb catch, but there were doubts about whether his leg had touched the boundary rope during the attempt. While the side angle seemed to suggest possible contact, the lack of conclusive evidence meant Samson had to leave the field.
Following the dismissal, there was a heated on-field discussion between Samson and the on-field umpires, with RR members in the dugout also visibly upset with the decision.
The controversial decision also divided social media, and former India cricketer Navjot Singh Sidhu expressed his views on the matter during the post-match show. Sidhu supported RR’s argument, claiming that Hope had made contact with the boundary rope twice while attempting the catch, and therefore, Samson should have been given not out.
He went on to say, “The decision that changed the game was Sanju Samson’s dismissal. The evidence is pretty clear if you look at the side-on angle. Either you don’t use technology, or if you use it and it makes a mistake, it’s like finding a fly in milk. It’s clear, you can see it from the naked eye.” Sidhu also referenced Kohli’s dismissal in a previous match and how visible evidence should be trusted.
Samson’s dismissal proved to be crucial as RR fell short by 20 runs in the run-chase, handing Delhi Capitals an important victory in their quest for the playoffs.
Current Standings of RR
Despite suffering their second consecutive loss, RR remains comfortably placed in second position on the table with 16 points from 12 matches. They are almost certain of a playoff spot, sitting four points ahead of third-placed Chennai Super Kings. Their next match is against CSK, followed by a game against Punjab Kings to round off the group stage.
