The IPL 2024 clash between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Delhi Capitals (DC) was marred by a controversial dismissal. Royals' captain Sanju Samson, was in scintillating form, blazing a trail with 86 runs off a mere 45 deliveries. However, his knock was abruptly cut short when a powerful shot towards long-off was snaffled by Shai Hope. The catch itself was a brilliant display of athleticism, but replays ignited controversy. A side-angle view hinted at the possibility of Hope's leg brushing the boundary rope during the catch attempt. Unfortunately, the lack of definitive evidence went against Samson, who was adjudged out. This decision sparked an animated on-field discussion with the umpires. The frustration extended to the RR dugout, with team members clearly voicing their disapproval of the call.
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The contentious call wasn't limited to the Arun Jaitley Stadium. Social media erupted in a heated debate, with fans passionately voicing their opinions. Former Indian cricketer Navjot Singh Sidhu also weighed in during the post-match show, adding fuel to the fire. Sidhu fiercely supported the Rajasthan Royals' perspective, arguing that replays showed Shai Hope made contact with the boundary rope not once, but twice during the catch. He strongly believed Sanju Samson should have remained at the crease.
“The decision that changed the game was Sanju Samson's dismissal. There could be differences of opinion, but if you look at the side-on angle, it touches the boundary twice. It was pretty clear. Either you don't use technology, or if you're using it and the technology is making a mistake, it's like there's a fly in milk, and someone asks you to drink it,” Sidhu told Star Sports.
“It touched the boundary line twice. And after this, if someone says that it's out... see, I'm a neutral person, so I've seen it, it's not out. That's why I also kept saying it about Kohli (on his dismissal against KKR, which triggered controversy over potential no-ball). Whatever may be the rule, you can see it from the naked eye; some evidence is very strong not to believe. It's like finding a trout in a glass of milk. Umpire didn't do it on purpose, no one is at fault. It's part of the game. That changed the game,” Sidhu concluded.
Sanju Samson's dismissal proved to be a turning point, as the Rajasthan Royals (RR) fell short by 20 runs in their chase against the Delhi Capitals (DC). This loss was crucial for DC's playoff push.
Although the Rajasthan Royals (RR) suffered their second consecutive defeat, their overall performance throughout the season keeps them in a strong position. Currently sitting comfortably at number two in the points table with 16 points from 12 matches, they're almost guaranteed a spot in the playoffs. This comfortable lead is further solidified by the four-point gap between them and the third-placed Chennai Super Kings (CSK).
Looking ahead, RR will have a chance to solidify their position even further when they face CSK in their next encounter. This match will be crucial, but even if they don't secure a win, their final group stage fixture against the Punjab Kings (PBKS) shouldn't significantly impact their playoff chances.
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