Harbhajan Singh Supports Umpire’s Call on Virat Kohli’s Dismissal

Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh has weighed in on the controversy surrounding Virat Kohli’s dismissal against the Kolkata Knight Riders in the ongoing IPL 2024, backing the umpire’s decision.

Kohli, who was displaying aggressive batting with two towering sixes in his brief knock of 18 runs off 7 balls, was caught and bowled by Harshit Rana after a full toss delivery that initially seemed to be a beamer.

Expressing his support for the umpire’s decision, Harbhajan noted that Kohli was out of the popping crease and the slower delivery from Harshit would have dipped below the waistline if Kohli had stayed within the crease.

According to Harbhajan, the BCCI’s rule for determining a no-ball based on the height of the ball in relation to the batsman’s waistline from the popping crease was upheld. He explained that if Kohli had been inside the crease, the ball would have been close to 0.92m, which is below Kohli’s waistline (1.04m).

Furthermore, he emphasized that while the ball may have seemed high initially, Kohli’s position outside the crease contributed to the perception. Harbhajan reiterated that the decision was made in accordance with the rule, considering the slower pace of the delivery.

Following his dismissal, Kohli expressed his discontent with the decision, engaging in a heated exchange with the on-field umpires. RCB captain Faf du Plessis also commented on the incident, acknowledging that while there may be differing opinions, the game’s rules must be respected.

The controversial dismissal added fuel to the debate, highlighting the fine margins and intensity of IPL matches.