Punam Raut has earned a lot of respect from all of us that she actually walked out: Smriti Mandhana

The Indian women’s side is up against Australia in their maiden pink-ball Test at the Carrara Oval. There were some moments that turned fans’ heads and one of them was Punam Raut walking off without the umpire signaling her out. Smriti Mandhana grabbed the limelight owing to her maiden Test ton but Raut’s decision of leaving the field definitely won hearts worldwide. Mandhana also opened up on her decision and stated that he has gained a lot of respect after it.

Mandhana added that she is unsure of how other players would have reacted in the same situation. Firstly, all were amused on her decision but later, all backed her and she has gained a lot of respect due to the same. Mandhana added that people go these days due to DRS but when it is not there, it is certainly difficult to make a call.

“First, we reacted, like, ‘Oh, why did she do that?’ But, then, of course, it’s something that we all respect a lot. I think she has earned a lot of respect from all the teammates that she actually walked out.  And I don’t know how many people would actually do that in cricket at the moment – men’s or women’s,” said Mandhana while speaking to ESPNcricinfo.

Punam Raut’s decision in absence of DRS fetched her huge respect

It has to be noted that there is no DRS available in the multi-format series wherein Australian and Indian women are playing. In this case, had Raut stood on the field, Australian cricketers would have no option left. It has to be noted that even Australian batter Beth Mooney was asked if she would have done the same in Raut’s situation to which Mooney said a ‘no’ outright. Raut added 36 runs from her end in 165 balls.

“Nowadays people walk out because there is DRS. But when there is no DRS and to walk out. I don’t know. So, definitely, she has earned a lot of respect from us, but, yeah, the first reaction was, ‘Oh, was it actually an edge or why did she walk?’” she added.