Waist Height No-Ball Ignites Controversy in T20 Thriller as Afghanistan Clinches Final Match Win

Technology’s role in umpiring decisions came under renewed scrutiny during the third and final Twenty20 International (T20I) between Sri Lanka and Afghanistan on Wednesday, as a contentious no-ball call overshadowed a thrilling three-run victory for the visitors.

With Sri Lanka needing 19 runs in the final over to chase down Afghanistan’s 209-5, a delivery from Wafadar Momand to Kamindu Mendis sparked controversy. Though replays suggested the ball might have been above waist height, the on-field umpire deemed it legal.

Captain Wanindu Hasaranga lashed out at the decision, calling it “unfit for international cricket” and suggesting the umpire consider another profession.

Hasaranga said, “If it was close it would have been OK but it was so high it was close to striking the batsman’s head. If he cannot see such a thing, this umpire is unfit for international matches and it is better for him to find another job.”

Mendis, who remained unbeaten on 65, hit two boundaries off the first three balls of the over but fell short by three runs despite a last-ball six. Sri Lanka ultimately won the series 2-1 despite the narrow defeat.

The incident reignited the debate around the use of the Decision Review System (DRS) in T20 cricket. While currently not implemented in T20Is, some players and fans have advocated for its inclusion to minimize such contentious calls.

Afghanistan were outstanding with bat before No-Ball saga

Earlier, Afghanistan posted a competitive 209-5 thanks to half-centuries from openers Hazratullah Zazai and Rahmanullah Gurbaz. Akila Dananjaya and Matheesha Pathirana picked up two wickets each for Sri Lanka, but the hosts were hampered by Pathum Nissanka’s injury and Kusal Mendis’ early dismissal.

Despite the late heroics from Kamindu Mendis, Sri Lanka fell agonizingly short, handing Afghanistan their first victory of the tour after defeats in the Test match and the ODI series.

While the result will be celebrated in the Afghan camp, the controversy surrounding the umpiring decision leaves a sour taste and further highlights the need for consistent application of technology in high-pressure situations.

Regardless of the debate surrounding technology, Afghanistan’s victory marked a significant moment for the team. Having lost the preceding Test match and ODI series, their T20I triumph offered a much-needed confidence boost before the upcoming Asia Cup.