In a crucial IPL 2025 match between Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), an interesting incident sparked a heated debate among cricket fans. During the 17th over, LSG bowler Digvesh Rathi attempted to run out Jitesh Sharma, who was at the non-striker's end. Rathi dislodged the bails before releasing the ball and appealed.
The on-field umpire consulted the third umpire, and after reviewing the replays, Ulhas Gandhi ruled that Rathi had completed his bowling action; therefore, Jitesh Sharma was deemed not out.
What Do the Rules Say?
According to IPL rule 38.3.1, a non-striker leaving the crease can be run out if the bowler hasn't completed their delivery stride. However, if the bowler has completed their action, the batsman is considered not out. The third umpire determined that Rathi's front foot had crossed the popping crease and he had completed his delivery stride, resulting in the not-out decision.
Expert Opinions
Former umpire Anil Chaudhary believes that since Rathi dislodged the bails before releasing the ball, it should have been a run-out. He considers the term "Mankading" inaccurate and prefers "run-out." While acknowledging Rathi was in the process of delivering the ball, he points out that interpretations of the rules can vary.
Conversely, cricket expert Tom Moody supported the third umpire's decision. He argued that Rathi hadn't attempted to bowl the ball; the ball was near his waist, and he hadn't initiated the bowling action by swinging his arm. Therefore, according to the rules, it was not out.
Jitesh Sharma's Performance and Match Result
Following the incident, Jitesh Sharma played even more aggressively. He scored an unbeaten 85 runs off 33 balls, guiding RCB to chase down a target of 228 runs with six wickets remaining and eight balls to spare. This was RCB's highest-ever successful run chase in IPL history and the third-highest in the IPL overall.
This victory secured RCB's place in Qualifier 1, where they will face Punjab Kings on May 29th. The Eliminator between Gujarat Titans and Mumbai Indians will be played on May 30th.
