New Delhi: It was a heartbreaking moment as India crashed out of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2022 at Hagley Oval in Christchurch, New Zealand, in a cliffhanger match that went to the last ball on Sunday.
The defeat against South Africa dashed India’s hopes to qualify for the semis. But the disappointment was made all the more bitter by a no-ball call in the last over that clearly turned the match in South Africa’s favour.
Batting first, India, led by Mithali Raj, scored 274. South Africa needed 7 runs to win in the last over, which was bowled by Deepti Sharma. Trisha Chetty got run-out on the second delivery. Mignon du Preez and Shabnim Ismail were at the crease.
On the fifth ball, Du Preez was dismissed by Deepti, caught by Harmanpreet Kaur at long-on. But the celebrations were short-lived as the umpire called a no-ball.
Now, South Africa needed 2 runs from 2 balls, which they did so easily.
Fans were distraught and called the umpire’s decision controversial.
Former India opener Virender Sehwag shared a picture of Jasprit Bumrah, R Ashwin and Hardik Pandya overstepping in ICC events. Ashwin and Hardik had faced flak for bowling no-balls in the World T20 semi-final in 2016 against West Indies. Bumrah had overstepped against Pakistan in the Champions Trophy 2017 final.
It wasn't just the no ball which cost India the game today but sometimes an inch costs moments that takes decades to achieve and are possibly once in a lifetime achievement for many players. Disappointing end to India's campaign #IndvSA #cwc22 pic.twitter.com/2DzerovJD1
— Virrender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) March 27, 2022
