R Ashwin Criticizes Rishabh Pant for Making Him Feel Undermined
Former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has voiced his support for Lucknow Super Giants bowler Digvesh Rathi following a controversial incident during the IPL 2025 match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. On his YouTube channel, Ashwin analyzed Rathi’s attempt to run out stand-in captain Jitesh Sharma at the non-striker’s end. While Ashwin acknowledged the technical aspects of the dismissal, he expressed frustration over LSG captain Rishabh Pant’s decision to withdraw the appeal after the third umpire ruled it not out, a move he felt undermined Rathi’s position.
### Analysis of the Incident
The incident occurred in the 17th over of Rathi’s bowling spell, with Royal Challengers Bengaluru needing 29 runs off the final 19 balls. Observing Jitesh Sharma step out of his crease, Rathi paused before delivering the ball and subsequently removed the bails. He then appealed for a run-out, but the third umpire determined that Rathi had already completed his delivery stride before the dismissal attempt. Consequently, the decision of ‘not out’ was displayed on the big screen.
Ashwin elaborated on the situation, emphasizing that Rathi’s action was justified under the rules. He pointed out that Jitesh was initially within the crease when Rathi landed his front foot, making the appeal invalid. The umpire, Michael Gough, confirmed that Rathi was appealing and not doubting his decision. Ashwin maintained that the correct call was made, highlighting the importance of upholding the integrity of the bowler’s appeal in such instances.
### Rishabh Pant’s Response
Following the decision, LSG captain Rishabh Pant withdrew the appeal and shared a moment of camaraderie with Jitesh Sharma, which commentators praised as an act of sportsmanship. However, Ashwin had a different perspective on this gesture. He argued that Pant’s actions sent a negative message to Rathi, who had just made a legitimate attempt at a dismissal. Ashwin felt that a captain’s primary responsibility is to support their bowlers, especially during contentious moments.
He expressed his admiration for Pant as a cricketer and acknowledged his recent century but criticized the decision to publicly diminish Rathi’s efforts. Ashwin argued that the display of camaraderie should not overshadow the need for a captain to stand by their players, particularly in high-pressure situations.
### The Rules of the Game
To provide clarity on the run-out situation, Ashwin referenced the relevant cricket laws. According to MCC Law 38.3.1, a non-striker can be run out at any time from when the ball is in play until the bowler is expected to release it. Specific details in subsections 38.3.1.1 and 38.3.1.2 further clarify that the non-striker can only be dismissed before the bowlerโs arm reaches the peak of their bowling action. This legal framework supports Ashwinโs argument that Rathi’s attempt was legitimate, as the appeal was made after the bowler had completed the delivery stride.
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