MSL 2019: Isuru Udana refuses to run out injured batsman; shows exemplary sportsman spirit

The ongoing season of Mzansi Super League 2019 has been full of action right from the start with some of the most high-quality batting and bowling on display along with some over the top celebrations from the players. However, all that has been done keeping the sportsman spirit in mind and in jest.

There have been instances like Dale Steyn’s hilariously cheeky attempt to run out AB de Villiers, to Tabraiz Shamsi’s ‘getting out of hand’ magic tricks as a way of celebrating his wickets, which included turning cloth into a wand. However, during the match between Nelson Mandela Bay Giants and Paarl Rocks, bowler Isuru Udana showed a remarkable sportsman spirit by refusing to run out an injured batsman.

Isuru Udana showcases the spirit of cricket

The Bay Giants needed 24 runs to win off the last 8 balls against the Rocks and NMBG batsman Heino Kuhn went for a big shot off Udana, but only managed to hit the ball to his partner Marco Maris. The hit left Marais in pain outside his crease, struggling to get back in and the bowler had a chance to run him out.

But Udana who had enough time and chance to hit the ball to the stumps decided to not take advantage of the situation and instead went back to his mark for the next delivery. Marais took advantage of the reprieve and hit a six in order to bring the target within reach.

Here’s the video:

Isuru Udana has been one of the best bowlers in the league and has been a permanent feature in Sri Lanka’s limited-overs side for some time now. He has played 15 ODIs and 27 T20Is for Sri Lanka since his international debut in 2009, claiming 35 international wickets. Meanwhile.

The Rocks’ bowlers kept their cools and managed to take the team home despite things getting too close for comfort. Paarl Rocks are leading the table with 27 points from ten matches while Nelson Mandela Bay Giants are second with 27 points from 10 matches. Paarl Rocks have qualified for the final, which is on December 16.

Watch: Quinton de Kock’s brilliant in MSL 2019