Was Ravichandran Ashwin Justified in Using Mankading on Jos Buttler?

The highly controversial dismissal of Jos Buttler in the 4th match of IPL 2019 by spin wizard Ravichandran Ashwin has sparked a heated debate among cricket enthusiasts. While many applaud Ashwin's strategic prowess, others argue that the move lacks sporting spirit. This article delves into the details of the incident, examining the rules, motivations, and impact of this controversial dismissal.

Ashwin's Strategic Move

Ashwin, the captain of the Kolkata Knight Riders, is no stranger to controversy. Yet, the manner in which he manipulated the rules to effect Jos Buttler's dismissal is unprecedented in Indian Premier League (IPL) history. Ashwin claimed that he deliberately waited for Buttler to leave the crease before dismantling the bails. The captain's explanation was that this was the best way to 'rid' the team of its key batsman, who was performing exceptionally well.

The Dismissal Controversy

Ashwin's tactic led to a series of fiery exchanges with Buttler. While the rules clearly state that a batsman is out if he leaves the crease and the bails are removed, the umpires and on-field judges may have misunderstood the situation. Third umpire officials decided that Buttler had indeed issued from the crease at the point of delivery, making him out of the crease. However, video evidence suggests that Buttler was actually inside the crease when the bails were removed.

The Broader Debate

The incident highlights a broader debate in cricket over the spirit of the game and the rules governing dismissals. While Ashwin was commended for his tactical brilliance, many argue that his actions were not in line with the true spirit of cricket. The incident raises questions about the importance of these rules and whether they need to be reviewed.

Historical Context and Criticism

Similar instances, like Mahendra Singh Dhoni waiting for a batsman to move out before effecting a stumping, are widely appreciated. Yet Ashwin's method of Mankading (a controversial method where the ball is bowled with the intention of dislodging the bails without bowling at the stumps) appears more intentional and deceiving. Critics argue that Ashwin's deliberate wait for Buttler to leave the crease before bowling the ball actively deceived the batsman and the fans.

Conclusion

Whether Ashwin was justified in using this tactic or not remains a matter of debate. As cricket continues to evolve, discussions like this can drive important changes in the rules and spirit of the game. It's crucial to strike a balance between strategic brilliance and fair play. Fans, players, and administrators must work together to ensure that the game remains entertaining and just.

What do you think about Ashwin's tactic? Was it justifiable or a violation of the spirit of cricket? Share your thoughts in the comments below!