IND vs ENG: R Ashwin faces online mockery for disputing with umpire after India imposed with 5-run penalty

In a surprising turn of events during the Rajkot Test between India and England, the hosts found themselves on the receiving end of a 5-run penalty. The unusual incident took place in the first session of Day Two, leaving cricket enthusiasts buzzing with conversations.

The penalty was a result of Ravindra Jadeja and R Ashwin running onto the protected area of the pitch during India's first innings. Umpire Joel Wilson, unyielding to Ashwin's protest, deemed it necessary to penalize India with five runs. Consequently, England commenced their first innings with a head start, the scoreboard displaying 5-0.

As per MCC Law 41 of the 'Unfair Play' under section 4.41.11 states - "The protected area is defined as that area of the pitch contained within a rectangle bounded at each end by imaginary lines parallel to the popping creases and 5 ft/1.52 m in front of each, and on the sides by imaginary lines, one each side of the imaginary line joining the centres of the two middle stumps, each parallel to it and 1 ft/30.48 cm from it."

This wasn't the first time Jadeja had courted trouble; he received a stern warning on Day One. It's worth noting that a warning applies to the entire team's innings. Another infraction in the same innings incurs a 5-run penalty.

Also Read: IND vs ENG 3rd Test Day 2: Why did England start at 5/0 without a ball being bowled?

The pivotal moment unfolded during the 102nd over of India's first innings on Day Two. Ashwin, attempting to steal a single, found himself on the wrong side of the umpire's scrutiny. Umpire Joel Wilson, citing a breach of the protected pitch area for the second time, swiftly signalled the 5 penalty runs.

Ashwin, evidently displeased with Wilson's decision, expressed his frustration on the field. The incident, however, provided fodder for netizens, who seized the opportunity to create humorous memes and jokes. As the game unfolds, cricket fans are left wondering if this peculiar turn of events will have a lasting impact on the outcome of the match.

As of the current moment, England stand at 138/1 (23.4 overs) in response to India's 445. Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope are at the crease, with scores of 97* and 19*, respectively.

Here's how fans trolled Ashwin for pitch walking offence: