RCB vs CSK: Ravindra Jadeja unfairly declared out? Michael Hussey's blunt verdict on all-rounder's obstructing the field dismissal

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batting coach Michael Hussey has reacted to the controversial incident involving Ravindra Jadeja's dismissal for obstructing the field during his team’s crucial IPL 2024 match against Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on May 12.

Michael Hussey stressed that he had only briefly reviewed the incident during the game but admitted that Jadeja did attempt to turn around, which could be seen as altering his angle. However, the CSK batting coach insisted that Jadeja didn't try to change direction while running back.

He acknowledged that there were arguments on both sides of the issue, and the umpire had to make a decision based on the rules. Giving his verdict on the controversy, Hussey said that maybe it was a fair call, but he was not unsure and reiterated that Jadeja didn’t change his direction.

Michael Hussey reacts to Ravindra Jadeja's controversial dismissal

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In a dramatic turn of events, CSK's star all-rounder Jadeja was given out for obstructing the field during the defending champions’ 5-wicket win over RR in the must-win IPL 2024 clash for the hosts in Chennai on Sunday. The incident occurred during the 16th over of CSK's innings when Jadeja, batting at the non-striker's end, was struck by a throw from RR's captain, Sanju Samson, who was attempting to run him out.

After reviewing the replays, the third umpire declared that Jadeja had intentionally changed his running path to protect the stumps after seeing the direction of the ball. Resulting in the CSK all-rounder being declared out on the big screen, much to the surprise of both Jadeja and the CSK fans.

Mike Hussey said at the post-match presentation: “Well, I have only had time to have a quick look at it during the game. I didn't have a close look at it. He did try and turn around, so I guess that's changing the angle. But he didn't try and change angle while he was running back. I can see both sides of the story.

I can see a story where he had to turn around, so he changed his angle a little bit. But he didn't try and change direction while he was running back. I can understand, the umpire has made his decision. The rule says you can't change your direction. Maybe it was a fair call. I am not sure.”

Ravindra Jadeja involved in such incident vs SRH as well

Meanwhile, Ravindra Jadeja's obstruction of the field against the RR isn't the only instance this season, as the Indian all-rounder found himself in a similar situation in a previous IPL 2024 match against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in Hyderabad.

SRH seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar's throw hit him on the back as Jadeja tried to return to his crease. However, SRH skipper Pat Cummins opted not to appeal against the CSK star, as he wasn't performing well with the bat.

Obstructing or not? 🤔

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However, Jadeja's wicket didn't significantly affect the outcome of the game, as CSK successfully chased down 142 runs with 5 wickets and 10 balls to spare to keep their IPL 2024 playoff hope alive. But this result dealt a blow to RR's quest to return to the top of the standings. CSK will play their last league game against RCB on May 18.