A major controversy erupted during the Pakistan vs India Women’s World Cup match when Pakistani opener Muneeba Ali was given a highly disputed run-out decision by the third umpire. The incident occurred during Pakistan’s chase of a 248-run target at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, leaving players, fans, and commentators stunned.
The confusion began when Muneeba, who appeared safely inside her crease, was declared out under unclear circumstances. The decision not only disrupted Pakistan’s innings early but also ignited a wave of criticism on social media, where fans accused officials of inconsistency and bias.
How the Controversy Unfolded
The drama started in the fourth over of Pakistan’s innings. Indian bowler Kranti Gaur’s LBW appeal against Muneeba was turned down. Moments later, a bizarre run-out situation developed. After playing the ball defensively, Muneeba placed her bat inside the crease but lifted it slightly as Indian fielder Deepti Sharma threw the ball from slip towards the stumps.
The throw hit the wickets, dislodging the bails just as Muneeba’s bat was momentarily in the air, though her body remained well inside the crease. The on-field umpires referred the decision to the third umpire, Kiran Kalaaste.
Initially, the big screen displayed “Not Out,” but within seconds, the verdict was changed to “Out”, shocking the players and crowd alike. Indian players celebrated while Muneeba Ali and captain Fatima Sana argued with the umpires, demanding clarification.
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ICC Rule and the Debate
According to ICC cricket laws, if a batter has made it into the crease and temporarily loses contact with the ground while stationary, they should not be declared out. The rule protects players from being unfairly dismissed during natural movements, such as lifting the bat or shifting weight.
In Muneeba’s case, she was not running or attempting another run; she was standing still inside her crease. This detail made the decision even more controversial, as many argued the umpires misinterpreted the rule.
Reports later suggested that the third umpire initially overlooked the second lift of the bat, and after reviewing the footage again, reversed the original “not out” call. The long delay in confirming the decision further fueled doubts about consistency and fairness.
Pakistan’s Protest and On-Field Confusion
Pakistan captain Fatima Sana immediately expressed frustration over the call and formally protested to the match referee. The team gathered in the middle for an extended discussion with the umpires, delaying play for several minutes.
Incoming batter Sidra Ameen waited near the boundary, refusing to enter the field until the final confirmation was made. After several replays and consultations, the decision stood – Muneeba Ali was ruled out for just 2 runs, leaving Pakistan 6/1 in the early overs.
Fans React: “Against the Spirit of the Game”
The decision sparked a massive online reaction. Hashtags criticizing the Indian team’s appeal and the umpiring decision began trending on social media platforms. Many fans and analysts described the dismissal as “technically correct but morally wrong.”
Several users pointed out that while the letter of the law might support the dismissal, the spirit of the game was clearly violated. “Muneeba was inside the crease. This was poor sportsmanship, not cricket,” one user commented.
A Moment That Could Define the Rivalry
The controversial run-out has added yet another heated chapter to the Pakistan-India cricket rivalry, especially in women’s cricket, where such moments are rare but highly emotional.
While India went on to capitalize on the early breakthrough, the debate around the decision is expected to continue long after the match. Cricket fans, experts, and even former players have called for the ICC to review the incident and provide clearer guidelines for similar future scenarios.
