Credit: BCCI/IPL
In a recent IPL 2025 match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), a notable incident occurred involving LSG spinner Digvesh Rathi. During the 17th over, Rathi attempted a 'Mankad' dismissal on RCB's stand-in captain Jitesh Sharma, who had stepped out of his crease. Although the third umpire ruled Sharma 'not out' due to Rathi completing his bowling action before dislodging the bails, LSG captain Rishabh Pant chose to withdraw the appeal, showcasing sportsmanship. Sharma capitalized on this reprieve, scoring an unbeaten 85 off 33 balls, leading RCB to a record-breaking chase of 228 runs.
The term 'Mankading' refers to a method of dismissal where a bowler runs out the non-striker for leaving the crease before the ball is delivered. Named after Indian cricketer Vinoo Mankad, who executed this dismissal against Australia's Bill Brown in 1947, it has been a subject of debate regarding the 'spirit of the game'. Despite being within the laws of cricket, many view it as unsporting. However, in 2022, the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) reclassified this dismissal from 'unfair play' to a standard 'run out', aiming to destigmatize it.
Rishabh Pant withdraws appeal for Digvesh Rathi’s ‘Mankad’ dismissal of Jitesh Sharma
Digvesh Rathi has been at the center of multiple controversies this IPL season. His 'notebook' celebration, perceived as provocative, led to several fines and a one-match suspension after repeated breaches of the IPL Code of Conduct. In a previous match against Sunrisers Hyderabad, Rathi's celebration sparked a heated exchange with Abhishek Sharma, further tarnishing his reputation.
The incident involving Rathi and Sharma has reignited discussions around the ethics of 'Mankading'. While the dismissal is legally permissible, opinions remain divided on its appropriateness. Rathi's actions, contradicting with Pant's decision to withdraw the appeal, highlight the ongoing debate between upholding the rules and maintaining sportsmanship.
