During the Super Over of the Asia Cup 2025 Super Four match between India and Sri Lanka, a controversial decision occurred when Sri Lanka's Dasun Shanaka was given not out despite appearing to be run out. This sparked considerable debate among fans and players alike.
Here's a breakdown of what happened:
- The Situation: Sri Lanka needed runs in the Super Over to tie India's score. On the fourth ball, Shanaka attempted a risky single after missing the ball. Indian wicketkeeper Sanju Samson quickly collected the ball and dislodged the bails, seemingly catching Shanaka short of his ground.
- Initial Appeal and Umpire's Decision: Initially, the on-field umpire raised his finger for caught behind, as Arshdeep Singh, the Indian bowler, simultaneously appealed for a possible edge. Shanaka immediately reviewed the caught-behind decision.
- DRS Review and the Key Rule: The third umpire determined that Shanaka had not edged the ball, thus overturning the caught-behind decision. However, because the umpire had initially ruled Shanaka out for caught behind, the ball was considered dead at that moment. According to the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) rules, specifically Playing Condition 20.1.1.3, "the ball is dead when the umpire has deemed a batter out". Therefore, the subsequent run-out could not be considered.
- Confusion and Discussion: The Indian players were visibly surprised and engaged in a lengthy discussion with the umpire, who explained the law. Suryakumar Yadav was seen in a discussion with the umpire.
- Impact on the Game: Although Shanaka survived the run-out appeal, he was dismissed on the very next ball. Sri Lanka ultimately scored only two runs in the Super Over, a target India chased down easily.
In essence, Shanaka was initially given out caught behind, and he reviewed the decision. While the review showed he hadn't edged the ball, the fact that he was initially given out meant the ball was dead, and the run-out could not be considered, even though he was out of his ground. This decision was based on MCC law 20.1, which states that the ball becomes dead once the umpire signals a batter is out.
