A controversial and shocking incident shook the ground during the 38th match of IPL 2026 between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). The manner in which young batsman Angkrish Raghuvanshi was given out by the third umpire sparked significant controversy, while following the decision, the Kolkata Knight Riders camp appeared extremely displeased, and Angkrish Raghuvanshi lost his cool on the field.
High-Voltage Drama on the Field
The incident occurred during the 5th over of the KKR innings, bowled by Prince Yadav. On the final ball of the over, Angkrish Raghuvanshi pushed a back-of-length delivery towards mid-on and set off for a run. However, his partner sent him back from halfway across the pitch. Raghuvanshi turned back and dove to make his ground, while Mohammed Shami threw the ball to effect a run-out. The ball struck Raghuvanshi on his body, leading to a mild appeal from the Lucknow Super Giants team.
The Third Umpire's Shocking Decision
In real-time, it initially appeared that Raghuvanshi had not changed his direction to come into the line of the throw. However, the narrative changed when the third umpire reviewed the replays. According to the third umpire's assessment, Raghuvanshi's turning radius was larger than normal. He also looked towards the ball and altered his direction. While diving, he moved outside the cut strip. The third umpire agreed with this assessment and declared Raghuvanshi out. Raghuvanshi was visibly furious after the decision, throwing his helmet and hitting his bat against the boundary line. He had to return to the pavilion after scoring 9 runs off 8 balls.
Understanding the 'Obstructing the Field' Rule
In the case of Angkrish Raghuvanshi, the umpire believed the action was intentional, while however, the batsman maintained that he was merely attempting to return to the crease.