'I can see both sides of the story' - CSK batting coach Michael Hussey's honest take on Ravindra Jadeja's 'obstructing the field' dismissal

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batting coach Michael Hussey gave his honest opinion on Ravindra Jadeja's 'obstructing the field' dismissal, which became a huge talking point in their clash against Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Sunday, May 12.

The incident took place in the 16th over of the second innings, as Chennai were cruising along in their pursuit of a 142-run target. Jadeja was batting alongside CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad. Off the fifth ball of the Avesh Khan over, the all-rounder dabbed one to third man and took a single. However, a miscommunication ensued between the two batters as they were trying to steal a second run. The third man passed the ball to wicketkeeper Sanju Samson, who aimed a throw at the non-striker's end.

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The ball hit Jadeja, RR appealed, and the third umpire was convinced that Jadeja knew in which direction the ball was heading. The 35-year-old had to make his way back to the pavilion after third umpire Anil Chaudhary ruled him out. Hussey opined that the decision could have gone either way. However, he wasn't too perturbed with the call and eventually termed it as a 'fair' one.

"Didn't look closely at it. He did try to turn around, so he changed his angle a little bit. But he didn't change his angle while running straight," Hussey told reporters during the post-match interaction.

"I can see both sides of the story. I can understand the umpire making the decision. The rule says you cannot change your line, so maybe, it was a fair call," he added.

Although the pitch was slow, it wasn't unplayable: Mike Hussey

The former Australian cricketer was pleased with the kind of surface that greeted the two teams at Chepauk. Chennai eventually won the encounter with five wickets and 10 balls to spare to go one step closer to playoff qualification.

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"Towards the back end of the tournament, the pitches tend to get a bit slower. But I loved the game today -- it was one of those close contests," Hussey stated.

"You needed to show some skills (on this wicket). The way the Rajasthan bowlers bowled, particularly the spinners, summed up the conditions and bowled accordingly. Although the pitch was slow, it wasn't unplayable. We're chasing a low total and did not have to take too many risks, which resulted in so many dot balls," he added.