'It was pretty clear' - Navjot Singh Sidhu gives his take on Sanju Samson’s controversial dismissal against DC

The recent clash between Delhi Capitals and Rajasthan Royals at the IPL (Indian Premier League) 2024 was cause for controversy. Both sides locked horns at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi in the 56th match of the tournament on Tuesday, May 7. 

After DC posted a total of 221 runs in the first innings, RR looked set for a big one during the run chase as skipper Sanju Samson put in a magnificent performance. Scoring 86 runs in 46 deliveries, Samson was looking to finish the game for his side. 

However, as Samson played a lofted shot towards long off, Shai Hope took an excellent catch at the boundary line, but many seemed to think that Hope’s feet touched the rope, which would mean that it is a six. However, after discussions with the third umpire, Samson was ultimately given out, which did not sit well with the RR camp. 

Former Indian cricketer Navjot Singh Sidhu also came forward to talk about the moment. The former Indian batter insisted that Hope’s feet touched the boundary rope and Samson was indeed not out.

“The decision that changed the game was Sanju Samson's dismissal. There could be differences of opinion, but if you look at the side-on angle, it touches the boundary twice. It was pretty clear. Either you don't use technology, or if you're using it and the technology is making a mistake, it's like there's a fly in milk, and someone asks you to drink it,” Sidhu told Star Sports. 

That changed the game: Sidhu

Sidhu also took the example of RCB batter Virat Kohli’s dismissal against KKR, where the star batter was given out on a delivery that seemed like a no-ball. He did opine that no one is at fault, and that is a part of the game, but Samson’s dismissal did change the flow of the clash. 

“That's why I also kept saying it about Kohli (on his dismissal against KKR, which triggered controversy over potential no-ball). Whatever may be the rule, you can see it from the naked eye; some evidence is very strong not to believe. It's like finding a trout in a glass of milk. The umpire didn't do it on purpose, no one is at fault. It's part of the game. That changed the game,” Sidhu added.