Virat Kohli's Dismissal: Analysis Reveals No-Ball Controversy

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The dismissal of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) captain Virat Kohli during their match against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) sparked a heated debate revolving around the waist-high no-ball rule in cricket, igniting discussions both on social media and within the cricketing community.

In the midst of the game, KKR pacer Harshit Rana delivered a full-toss that Kohli struck just above his waist height, resulting in a catch to the bowler. Despite Kohli's attempt to review the decision, the umpires upheld the dismissal, fueling controversy.

While many criticized the umpiring decision, it's essential to clarify that the decision was made based on technological assessment, as Kohli opted to review the dismissal.

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According to the 3rd umpire, Virat Kohli was outside his crease.

- It's a fair delivery or a No Ball according to you? pic.twitter.com/GkESFX73Nj

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) April 21, 2024

Analyzing the incident, it's crucial to understand the parameters of the waist-high no-ball rule. According to the rule, a delivery is deemed a no-ball if it passes or would have passed, without pitching, above waist height of the striker standing upright at the popping crease. However, in Kohli's case, the delivery did not meet this criterion.

Upon examination, the third umpire ruled that the delivery from Harshit Rana was fair, considering Kohli's position outside the crease. Furthermore, the impact between the ball and the bat occurred significantly ahead of Kohli's body.

Technological assessment revealed that Kohli's waist height was measured at 1.04 meters in an upright position. However, had Kohli remained inside the crease, the ball would have reached him at a height of 0.92 meters, falling within the acceptable range and thus not qualifying as a no-ball.

Referencing ICC regulations, specifically rule 41.7 regarding the bowling of dangerous and unfair non-pitching deliveries, any delivery passing above waist height at the popping crease is deemed unfair and called a no-ball. However, in this instance, the rule did not favor Kohli's dismissal.

The debate surrounding the incident persisted, with supporters of RCB and Kohli arguing that the impact of the ball was indeed above waist-high, rendering it difficult for Kohli to play comfortably. Despite stepping slightly out of the crease, the potentially dangerous nature of the delivery remained.

RCB captain Faf du Plessis commented on the situation, acknowledging the differing perspectives on the decision. He emphasized that such debates are inherent to the game, with one team often left dissatisfied with the outcome.

Ultimately, the crux of the argument centers on whether measuring the height of the ball from the position of the popping crease is the most appropriate method, a question that continues to divide opinions within the cricketing fraternity.