In a gripping moment of the Women’s T20 World Cup, the India vs New Zealand clash at the Dubai International Stadium witnessed an unexpected controversy that led to a 7-minute pause in play. The incident occurred during New Zealand’s 14th over when Amelia Kerr and Sophie Devine attempted a second run after India’s Deepti Sharma had finished her over.
Kerr hit the ball towards long-off, where India’s Harmanpreet Kaur collected it but did not throw it back. Taking advantage of this, Kerr and Devine set off for a second run. However, by the time they began their sprint, umpire Anna Harris had already signaled the end of the over, and Deepti had received her cap from the umpire.
As Kerr crossed the crease, she was run-out and started walking back to the pavilion. However, before she could leave the boundary, the fourth umpire intervened, bringing her back to the field. The umpire informed her that she wasn’t out as the ball was considered “dead” the moment the over was called. According to cricket’s law 20.1, once an umpire calls “over,” any action that follows is void.
India’s captain, Harmanpreet Kaur, visibly frustrated, challenged the decision, engaging in a heated exchange with both the on-field and fourth umpires. The Indian coach, Amol Muzumdar, also joined the discussion, but after a prolonged pause, the play resumed with Amelia Kerr staying on the field.
This moment of tension raised questions about on-field decision-making and cricket’s complex rules, sparking debate among players and fans alike. Though Kerr was not out, India’s reaction showed just how critical every moment is in a high-stakes match like this one.