Five biggest cricket controversies of 2024

4. Phoebe Litchfield's overturned LBW decision in WT20

Phoebe Litchfield’s overturned LBW decision in Australia’s clash against India during the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 triggered numerous debates. In the 17th over of Australia’s innings, Deepti Sharma’s delivery had Litchfield attempting a switch hit. The on-field umpire, Sue Redfern, adjudged her LBW. After consulting with non-striker Ellyse Perry, Litchfield reviewed the decision.

Replays revealed that the ball had pitched outside the leg stump of a left-handed batter, leading to the third umpire overturning the original decision. However, India, contested the call, arguing Litchfield’s switch to a right-handed stance meant the ball should be judged accordingly. According to MCC law 36.1.2, the offside is determined by the batter’s stance at the moment the ball comes into play. Since the ball pitched outside the leg stump for a left-hander at that moment, Litchfield’s review went in her favour.