Jitesh Sharma Survived Digvesh Rathi’s Mankad Appeal

Cricket is a game rich in traditions, technicalities, and moments that ignite debate across the globe. One such moment occurred when Jitesh Sharma was adjudged not out despite being seemingly outside the crease during a Mankad attempt by Digvesh Rathi. The decision sparked widespread discussion on social media, leaving fans questioning the fairness, legality, and spirit of the game.

In this article, we break down the incident, explain the relevant ICC laws, and discuss the reasoning behind the umpire’s decision. We’ll also explore the historical and ethical context surrounding “Mankading” in cricket.

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What is a Mankad?

The term “Mankad” refers to the act of a bowler running out a non-striker who leaves the crease before the ball is delivered. Named after Vinoo Mankad, who famously executed this form of dismissal in 1947, it remains one of the most controversial methods of getting a batter out.

Despite being completely legal under ICC rules, it raises questions about sportsmanship and fair play.

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The Jitesh Sharma vs Digvesh Rathi Incident

The incident occurred during a domestic T20 match when bowler Digvesh Rathi stopped mid-run-up and attempted to dismiss non-striker Jitesh Sharma via a Mankad. Spectators and viewers could clearly see that Sharma was marginally outside the crease at the time.

However, to everyone’s surprise, the umpire ruled him not out.

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Relevant ICC Rules Regarding Mankading

In October 2022, the ICC officially moved “Mankading” from the category of “Unfair Play” to “Run Out” under Law 38.3.1:

“If the non-striker is out of his/her ground at any time from the moment the ball comes into play until the instant when the bowler would normally have been expected to release the ball, the non-striker is liable to be run out.”

Key Points:

• The bowler must execute the run out before completing their bowling action.
• The non-striker must be out of their crease during that window.
• The dismissal must be in accordance with timing and process outlined by ICC.

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Why Was Jitesh Sharma Given Not Out?

There are a few likely reasons behind the decision:

1. Timing of the Attempt

Umpires are instructed to observe exactly when the bowler decides to break the stumps. If Digvesh Rathi had already completed his bowling action or delayed unnaturally, the attempt would be invalid.

2. Position of the Non-Striker

Even though Sharma appeared to be out of the crease, television angles and replays may not have shown whether he was still grounded when the bails were broken.

3. Lack of Appeal or Umpire’s Discretion

Sometimes bowlers attempt a Mankad to warn rather than dismiss. If Rathi didn’t formally appeal, the umpire cannot declare the batter out.

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Controversy Jitesh Sharma: Law vs Spirit of the Game

Mankading is legally sound but often morally debated. Critics argue it’s a “cheap” way to dismiss a batter. Supporters say it enforces discipline and fairness.

Supporters Say:

• “Why should a batter steal ground?”
• “The bowler is penalized for overstepping—batters should be too.”

Critics Say:

• “It goes against the spirit of cricket.”
• “A warning should be given first.”

In Jitesh Sharma’s case, the intent of the bowler and position of the batter created enough ambiguity for the umpire to lean towards a not-out verdict.

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Social Media Reaction

As expected, fans on Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube were quick to react:

• “That’s Mankad clear as day! Umpire bottled it.”
• “Good call by the umpire. Spirit of the game matters.”
• “Jitesh was clearly out. Rules are rules.”

The clip went viral within hours, with hashtags like #Mankad, #JiteshSharma, and #CricketControversy trending across platforms.

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Similar Jitesh Sharma: Historical Incidents

• Vinoo Mankad (1947): The origin of the term when he ran out Australian Bill Brown.
• Ravi Ashwin vs Jos Buttler (2019 IPL): One of the most high-profile Mankads in modern cricket.
• Deepti Sharma vs Charlie Dean (2022): Sparked a major international debate, but Deepti followed the law strictly.

These incidents show that Mankads are not rare—but each time, they spark heated debates.

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What Can Be Done to Avoid Such Confusion?

1. Clearer Umpire Communication

Umpires must clearly explain Mankad rulings to avoid confusion.

2. Third Umpire & Replays

Using slow-motion replays can verify the exact position of the batter and the timing of the delivery.

3. Consistent Application of Rules

All matches—domestic or international—should apply ICC rules without bias or inconsistency.

4. Educational Campaigns

Educating fans and players about Mankad laws could reduce outrage when such dismissals happen.

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Conclusion

The Jitesh Sharma–Digvesh Rathi Mankad episode is a perfect example of how nuanced cricket laws can lead to major debates. While Jitesh appeared outside the crease, the timing, execution, and intent played major roles in the umpire’s decision to declare him not out.

As Mankading continues to evolve from taboo to tactic, players, officials, and fans alike must embrace clarity, transparency, and respect for the laws of cricket.

Cricket, after all, thrives on its complexity—and it’s moments like these that remind us why it’s more than just a game.

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