Virat Kohli’s Dismissal Sparks Major DRS Controversy in India vs Sri Lanka 2nd ODI 2024

A thrilling controversy unfolded during the second ODI between India and Sri Lanka at R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo on Sunday, leaving the cricket fraternity in a state of turmoil. The incident occurred when Indian skipper Virat Kohli was given a life by the third umpire, much to the dismay of the Sri Lankan players and fans.

The drama unfolded on the final ball of the 15th over, when Akila Dananjaya’s delivery caught Kohli right in front of the stumps. The Sri Lankan players appealed for an LBW, and the umpire, after consulting with the TV umpire, raised his finger to signal Kohli out. However, Kohli was not convinced and opted to review the decision.

The third umpire was faced with a daunting task, as the UltraEdge showed a spike when the ball crossed Kohli’s bat before hitting his pad, but the visuals showed that there was a significant gap between the bat and the ball during that time. After a lengthy review, the third umpire ultimately ruled in favor of Kohli, leaving the Sri Lankan players and fans frustrated.

The incident sparked a heated debate on social media, with many fans and experts questioning the decision. The Sri Lankan wicketkeeper, Kusal Mendis, even threw his helmet on the ground in frustration, while interim head coach Sanath Jayasuriya looked on in dismay.

Despite this controversy, India were unable to capitalize on their good start, eventually being bowled out for 208 in 42.2 overs. Rohit Sharma made 64 in 44 balls, while Axar Patel struck 44 in as many deliveries. Sri Lanka, on the other hand, put up a formidable total of 240 for nine, thanks to a solid performance from Avishka Fernando (40 off 62 balls) and Kamindu Mendis (40 off 44 balls).

The Indian bowling attack was led by Washington Sundar (3/30), who played a crucial role in restricting Sri Lanka to a manageable total. However, it was Sri Lanka’s leg-spinner Jeffrey Vandersay who stole the show with an impressive haul of 6/33, which earned him the Player of the Match award.

In an interview after the match, Vandersay credited his team’s batting performance for setting up his bowling success. “There was a lot of pressure coming into the side. I am coming out of a layoff. I had to (do) something and it is easier to take credit. I want to give credit to the batters as well. They put on 240 runs and that helped me to bowl in good areas,” he said.

Vandersay also spoke about his approach to bowling, saying that he tried to hit good areas and capitalize on any assistance he received from the pitch. “I have to keep pushing myself. There was assistance in the wicket, I was trying to hit the good areas. Once I got my first wicket, that built up my confidence. Fortunately, I was able to take six wickets,” he added.

Despite this controversy-filled match, both teams will look to regroup and come back stronger in their next encounter. For now, however, the focus remains on whether Virat Kohli was truly out or not – a question that will continue to spark debate and discussion in the cricket community.