IPL 2024 Eliminator: Dinesh Karthik DRS Controversy Leaves Kumar Sangakkara and Avesh Khan Fuming

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In a gripping encounter between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) during the IPL 2024 Eliminator, a pivotal DRS controversy unfolded, altering the course of the match. Also read: Most Runs in IPL 2024 | Most Wickets | Most Sixes | IPL 2024 Points Table

During the 15th over of the match, Avesh Khan seemingly trapped RCB's Dinesh Karthik leg-before-wicket (LBW) with a delivery that appeared to be hitting the stumps. However, a turn of events ensued as Karthik decided to review the on-field umpire's decision, leading to a contentious turn of events.

Rajasthan Royals' director of cricket Kumar Sangakkara was livid at the decision and approached the match officials on the decision as he felt the third umpire got it all wrong. Pacer Avesh Khan was not too impressed too but the duo couldn't do much except for their animated expression as rulebooks tied their hands, which says third umpire's decision is the last.

The UltraEdge displayed a significant spike as the ball passed the bat, hinting at a possible inside edge before hitting the pad. Despite the uproar from the Rajasthan Royals' camp, the decision was overturned, sparing Karthik from the dismissal.

Renowned Indian batting legend Sunil Gavaskar, providing commentary for JioCinema, expressed strong reservations about the third umpire's decision. He highlighted the timing of the spike on the UltraEdge, indicating that it occurred before the ball reached Karthik, suggesting that he made contact with the pad after hitting the ball. This view was supported by the replays, further fueling the controversy surrounding the decision.

The contentious DRS decision had far-reaching implications, significantly impacting the trajectory of the match. Karthik's survival, a crucial moment for RCB, came at a juncture when they were five wickets down in the 15th over. His potential dismissal would have substantially favoured the Rajasthan Royals, with Mahipal Lomror being the lone recognized batter at the crease.

RCB went on to post a par total of 172/8 in 20 overs with Dinesh Karthik contributing a 13-ball 11 while Mahipal Lomror scored a 17-ball 32.