In the Big Bash League match between Brisbane Heat and Sydney Sixers on Sunday, Michael Neser’s incredible catch caused discussion and controversy.
While Jordan Silk’s ball was hit inside the boundary, Neser had to step outside it to accomplish the catch. Before leaving the allowed playing area, he flicked the ball in the air.
Neser leaped into the air after coming to rest beyond the boundary rope, caught the ball, and flung it back inside the playing area before moving inside the boundary to complete the dismissal.
The umpires determined that the effort was reasonable, and Silk was dismissed. Fans debated the verdict on social media and criticised the guideline that declared the attempt legal.
ICC has shared an explainer in which it mentioned the relevant laws, saying, “Law 19.5.2 states: A fielder who is not in contact with the ground is considered to be grounded beyond the boundary if his/her final contact with the ground, before his/her first contact with the ball after it has been delivered by the bowler, was not entirely within the boundary.”
“It is important to note that as long as the fielder’s first touch of the ball is inside the boundary line, they are allowed to finish the catch however they like, provided their feet are not grounded with the ball over the boundary. Neser’s initial contact with the ball, the timing of his jump, and the eventual catch were all within the laws of the game, the batter was correctly declared out,” ICC added.
Also Read: IPL 2023: 3 Players That Can Lead Delhi Capitals (DC) If Rishabh Pant Misses Out
