India's DRS Drama: Deepti Sharma Walks, Amanjot Forces Review
In a perplexing turn of events during the Women's World Cup 2025 match between India and South Africa, Deepti Sharma's dismissal became a focal point of controversy due to a last-second review urged by her teammate, Amanjot Kaur. The incident, which occurred on Thursday at the Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Stadium, not only resulted in India losing a crucial wicket but also wasting a valuable Decision Review System (DRS) challenge.
The drama unfolded during the 26th over of India's innings. Facing a delivery from Marizanne Kapp that angled down the leg side, Deepti attempted a glance but managed only a faint tickle. Wicketkeeper Sinalo Jafta reacted swiftly, completing a sharp catch as South Africa erupted in appeal. The on-field umpire raised her finger, signaling Deepti's dismissal.
Surprisingly, Deepti Sharma, seemingly aware that she had edged the ball, immediately began walking back to the dressing room, accepting the umpire's decision without hesitation. However, the situation took an unexpected turn when Amanjot Kaur, stationed at the non-striker's end, intervened.
Amanjot stopped Deepti and convinced her to opt for a review, despite the limited time remaining on the DRS timer. With just one second left, the review was initiated. The decision was sent upstairs, and replays using UltraEdge technology confirmed a clear spike when the ball passed Deepti's bat. Consequently, the on-field decision stood, and India lost both the wicket and the review. Deepti was dismissed for a score of four runs.
This incident sparked debate among cricket fans and experts alike, with many questioning the rationale behind using a review when the batter herself seemed certain of her dismissal. Some critics argued that Amanjot Kaur should have respected Deepti's judgment and avoided the last-ditch review, while others pointed out the importance of utilizing all available resources, even in seemingly hopeless situations.
The dismissal further compounded India's struggles, as they had already experienced a shaky performance from their top-order. However, Richa Ghosh's aggressive batting lower down the order helped India reach a total of 251. Ultimately, India lost the match to South Africa by three wickets.
The incident involving Deepti Sharma is not the first instance of DRS-related controversy in women's cricket. The Indian team has faced criticism in the past for their use of the DRS, with some observers suggesting that they need to improve their decision-making in such situations. In a previous match against Pakistan in the same World Cup, India wasted reviews, highlighting the need for better assessment and communication on the field.
Beyond this controversial dismissal, the India-Pakistan match saw other tense moments, including a contentious run-out decision against Pakistan's Muneeba Ali. There was also a heated exchange on the field involving Deepti Sharma and Sidra Amin.
