Joe Root’s Yorkshire showcase incredible act of sportsmanship, refuses to run batsman out after he collapses midway in pitch

Although cricket is hailed as a gentleman’s game, many players over the years have come under the scanner for following the ‘win at all cost’ policy. Several cricketers have been accused of crossing the line of sportsman spirit while trying to take their side over the line. At the same time, some individuals have shown there are things beyond victory and defeat.

One such exhibition of sportsmanship was witnessed during the Yorkshire vs Lancashire clash in the T20 Blast 2021. Needing 15 runs off 18 balls with four wickets in hand, Lancashire were already in the driver’s seat and their win seemed a mere formality. However, they would have made things difficult for themselves by running out Steven Croft. The all-rounder collapsed midway in the pitch while taking a run. With Croft struggling with cramps, Yorkshire had an easy opportunity of running him out.

However, the Joe Root-led side opted not to do so. The fielders didn’t even dispatch the stumps at the striker’s end and instead rushed to Croft for help. As mentioned above, Yorkshire were on the back foot in the contest, and dismissing a well-set Steven Croft might have changed their fortunes.  The side, however, viewed things from a different perspective and Croft got a lifeline.

Fans divided over Yorkshire’s sportsmanship act

While Yorkshire’s act of sportsmanship impressed most, there were some different views as well. Croft remained unbeaten till the end as Lancashire crossed the line in 19 overs, winning the contest by four wickets. It was evident that Croft had sustained cramps and not any hamstring injury. Hence, some felt Yorkshire’s sportsmanship act was over the board.

Moreover, the batsman had hesitated before taking the run and there was a possibility of him not completing the run even if he hadn’t collapsed. Adding salt to Yorkshire’s wounds, that delivery was called a dead ball. Hence, the Joe Root-led side couldn’t even get a dot delivery out of it. Meanwhile, this win helped Lancashire advance to second place in the North Group team standings. At the same time, Yorkshire slipped to third place.

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