Harsha Bhogle criticizes 'spirit of cricket' debate after IPL run-out controversy

Harsha Bhogle weighed in on the IPL 2025 run-out incident involving Digvesh Rathi and Jitesh Sharma, urging fans to respect the laws of cricket rather than debate the spirit of the game. His comments highlight the tension between rule enforcement and sportsmanship in high-stakes matches.

Sources:
The Indian ExpressSports
Updated 2h ago
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Sources: The Indian ExpressSports
During the IPL 2025 match between Lucknow Super Giants and Royal Challengers Bengaluru at Ekana Cricket Stadium, a run-out controversy sparked debate over the 'spirit of cricket.'

LSG bowler Digvesh Rathi attempted a run-out on RCB stand-in skipper Jitesh Sharma at the non-striker's end in the 17th over. The umpire, after reviewing the appeal, ruled Sharma not out, leading to discussions about the fairness and spirit of the game.

Commentator Harsha Bhogle weighed in on the controversy, emphasizing adherence to the laws of cricket rather than subjective interpretations of spirit. "I have no problem with the umpire turning down the appeal if he thinks the non-striker was inside the crease when the bowler's arm had crossed the point where he is expected to release the ball," Bhogle wrote on social media.

He further expressed his disappointment over invoking the spirit of the game in such situations, stating, "You play by the laws."

The incident also involved Rishabh Pant withdrawing the appeal, adding to the complexity of the situation.

This episode highlights ongoing tensions in cricket between strict rule enforcement and the traditional ethos of sportsmanship, with Bhogle advocating clarity and respect for the official laws over ambiguous moral debates.

Key quotes:
"I have no problem with the umpire turning down the appeal if he thinks the non-striker was inside the crease when the bowler's arm had crossed the point where he is expected to release the ball."
"I am disappointed when the spirit of the game is invoked. You play by the laws."

Stats/Context:
- IPL 2025 match between Lucknow Super Giants and Royal Challengers Bengaluru
- Run-out attempt by Digvesh Rathi on Jitesh Sharma in the 17th over
- Appeal turned down after video review
- Rishabh Pant withdrew the appeal
Sources: The Indian ExpressSports
Commentator Harsha Bhogle criticized the 'spirit of cricket' debate following a run-out controversy in the IPL match between Lucknow Super Giants and Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Bhogle emphasized playing by the laws, expressing disappointment over invoking the spirit of the game after an umpire turned down a run-out appeal.
Section 1 background
I have no problem with the umpire turning down the appeal if he thinks the non-striker was inside the crease when the bowler's arm had crossed the point where he is expected to release the ball. I am disappointed when the spirit of the game is invoked. You play by the laws.
Harsha Bhogle
Indian cricket commentator
The Indian ExpressSports
Key Facts
  • Digvesh Rathi of Lucknow Super Giants attempted a run-out of RCB stand-in skipper Jitesh Sharma at the non-striker's end in the 17th over.The Indian ExpressSports
  • The on-field umpire turned down the run-out appeal after review, ruling Jitesh Sharma not out.The Indian Express
  • Rishabh Pant withdrew the run-out appeal before the decision was finalized.Sports
  • The incident sparked a debate on the 'spirit of cricket' with some questioning the fairness of the appeal.The Indian ExpressSports
  • Harsha Bhogle expressed disappointment over invoking the spirit of the game and emphasized that players should play by the laws.The Indian ExpressSports

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