There are a handful of ICC rules that have always remained under debate, whether it’s the mankading rule, the infamous boundary-count rule, or the umpire’s call rule. One such rule is ‘Obstructing the field’. The rule is generally fair but it can be manipulated, as was seen in the U19 World Cup match between England and Zimbabwe.
In the game, the Zimbabwe U19 team invited the junior English side to bat first. England had a good start to their innings; however, the incident of obstructing the field became the turning point of their innings. During the 17th over of the match, Zimbabwe bowler Ryan Simbi bowled a middle and leg delivery to Hamza Shaikh. The ball edged the batter’s bat and, after striking his pad, landed near his feet.
The ball lay motionless, and being a good sport, Hamza picked it up and handed it to the Zimbabwe keeper, Ryan Kamwemba. However, unexpectedly, Zimbabwe players, including the keeper, appealed for obstructing the field. The batter’s expression reflected disbelief, as if asking, “Really?”
Out for obstructing the field 😂😂 #Cricket
pic.twitter.com/WVZtLEMRfc— Cow Corner (@CowCorner183) February 3, 2024
Both umpires, after a discussion, referred the case to the TV umpire, who ruled Hamza Shaikh out for obstructing the field. However, the controversy has been ignited over the actions of the Zimbabwe U19 team and also over the rule itself, as there was no chance whatsoever that the ball was going to hit the stumps.
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Former English batter Steve Harmison has criticized the ICC’s rule, deeming it senseless. “Umpires have got to have more power and sway in the game – common sense doesn’t always come into officiating – I don’t know why. Common sense would get on so much better if we had some. I’m sorry that’s a shocker. If you’re getting given out for that then the game’s gone, it really has. How can an umpire give that out?”