IPL 2024: KKR vs RCB, Match 36 - Here's why Virat Kohli's dismissal was deemed correct

Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) star batter Virat Kohli was left disheartened after an unfortunate dismissal in the IPL 2024 match against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Eden Gardens on Sunday, April 21. During RCB's chase of 223 runs, Kohli's innings came to an abrupt end at 18 on the very first delivery of the third over.

KKR's right-arm fast-bowler Harshit Rana delivered a full toss to Kohli, seemingly above waist height, but the batter failed to connect with the ball properly and was subsequently caught and bowled. The dismissal sparked a slight controversy as the on-field umpire opted to review the decision, referring it to third umpire Michael Gough. The third umpire determined that the ball had dipped before reaching the batter, ruling it as a legitimate dismissal. 

The former RCB captain expressed his discontentment with the decision as he was seen engaging in a heated discussion with the umpire before leaving the field. The 35-year-old was also visibly frustrated as he slammed his bat on the boundary rope before entering the dressing room.

Also read: KKR vs RCB: Virat Kohli furious with umpires for controversial no-ball dismissal

Notably, Kohli was dismissed under Law 41.7.1 of the ICC Playing Conditions which states, “Any delivery, which passes or would have passed, without pitching, above waist height of the striker standing upright at the popping crease, is to be deemed to be unfair, whether or not it is likely to inflict physical injury on the striker. If the bowler bowls such a delivery the umpire shall immediately call and signal No ball.”

For this delivery, Kohli was standing outside of the crease and the ball appeared to be waist high. If he were inside the crease the ball would have passed under his waist and hence the delivery was deemed fair and the out call was right as per the umpires. 

Navjot Singh Sidhu deems Kohli's dismissal 'not out'

Navjot Singh Sidhu, the official on-air commentator, has claimed that Virat Kohli's dismissal was unfair and criticized the umpire's ruling. The former Indian cricketer stated that the point of impact of the delivery should be given more significance while making such decisions.

Also read: IPL 2024: Virat Kohli teases crowd hinting at opening the bowling; video goes viral

''Chhati Thok Ke Kehta Hu, Not Out Hain! (I say it loud and proud that it was Not Out)," he said on air.

Meanwhile, noted commentator Harsha Bhogle, during his analysis of the wicket, remarked, “RCB have been robbed here.”