Sri Lankan cricket witnessed a dramatic turn of events yesterday as their captain, Wanindu Hasaranga, launched a scathing attack on umpire Lindal Hannibal after a controversial no-ball call in the final over of a nail-biting encounter against Afghanistan.
Chasing a record target of 210, Sri Lanka found themselves needing 19 runs off the last six balls with Kamindu Mendis on strike. The drama unfolded when the 4th delivery, a high full toss not adjudged a no-ball. However, replays suggested the ball was over the waist limit, sparking fury in the Sri Lankan camp.
Skipper Hasaranga was seen exchanging heated words with the umpire after the match and later unleashed a verbal barrage in the post-match press conference.
“This can’t happen in an international match,” Hasaranga said, visibly frustrated. “If it had been bit higher it could’ve hurt the batsman. The umpire is unfit if he can’t spot something like this, He’d better do some other job.”
He further demanded that the ICC implement a review system for no balls and wides. (NewsWire)
"This shouldn't happen in an international match. If the umpire can't spot this he is unfit. He’d better do some other job" Sri Lanka Skipper Wanindu Hasaranga on the controversial no ball call pic.twitter.com/wfyOnQYKb5
— Azzam Ameen (@AzzamAmeen) February 21, 2024