Cricket is a game full of surprises, and sometimes, these surprises come in the form of bizarre dismissals that leave players, umpires, and fans scratching their heads. For Indian cricket, these unusual moments have not only added spice to the game but also become part of its fascinating folklore.
Let’s dive into some of the strangest dismissals involving Indian players, moments that remind us that cricket truly is a game of glorious uncertainties.
Mohinder Amarnath: Handling the Ball (1986)
Imagine being dismissed for something as rare as touching the ball! In a 1986 Test match against Australia, Mohinder Amarnath became the first Indian cricketer and the sixth overall to be dismissed for handling the ball. As he pushed a delivery, the ball rolled back toward the stumps. Acting instinctively, Amarnath touched the ball to stop it, leading to this unusual dismissal.
While the rules were followed, the incident sparked debates about the spirit of the game, leaving cricket fans worldwide with an unforgettable story.
Ashwin’s “Mankading” Controversy
Ravichandran Ashwin brought global attention to an age-old cricket law when he “Mankaded” Jos Buttler in an IPL match. Although this dismissal wasn’t technically illegal, it divided fans and experts alike. While Ashwin defended his action, others questioned whether it aligned with the spirit of the game.
It was a dismissal that wasn’t just strange but also deeply polarizing, reminding us how complex the game can be.
Rahul Dravid’s Double Trouble: Hit-Wicket and Obstruction
Known as “The Wall,” Rahul Dravid was rarely associated with bizarre dismissals. However, in 2001 against Zimbabwe, he was dismissed by hit-wicket—a dismissal often associated with careless moments rather than solid players like Dravid.
In another instance, he came close to being out for obstructing the field when trying to stop a throw. While he wasn’t dismissed this time, it was a close call and a rare sight involving a player known for his discipline.
The Forgotten “Timed Out” Close Call
While no Indian player has officially been dismissed as “timed out” (failing to arrive at the crease within the stipulated time), there have been instances when players narrowly escaped. A famous incident involved MS Dhoni during an IPL game when he made it to the crease with just seconds to spare.
The “timed out” rule remains a rarity, but it’s one that could spring to life any moment, adding tension to cricket’s long list of dramatic possibilities.
The Legacy of Strange Dismissals
Cricket’s charm lies in its unpredictability, and strange dismissals add a quirky twist to the game’s narrative. For Indian cricket, these moments go beyond mere stats—they are stories of instinct, tension, and even laughter.
While players may not look back fondly on such incidents, they certainly leave fans with unforgettable memories.
Final Thoughts
Strange dismissals remind us that cricket is not just about runs, wickets, or records; it’s also about the unexpected moments that make us gasp, laugh, or debate endlessly.
The next time you watch a game, keep an eye out—you might just witness the next chapter in cricket’s bizarre history!
