Is It a Humiliation for the Bowler? Ashwin Critiques Pant's Withdrawal of Run-Out Appeal
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Synopsis
In IPL 2025, Ravichandran Ashwin criticizes Rishabh Pant for withdrawing a run-out appeal against Jitesh Sharma. Ashwin argues that this act undermines bowlers and suggests it could have lasting effects. This controversy highlights the tension between sportsmanship and a captain's responsibility to back their players.
Key Takeaways
- Ashwin's critique highlights the importance of supporting bowlers.
- Sportsmanship versus strategy remains a contentious issue in cricket.
- The withdrawal of an appeal can impact a bowler's confidence.
- Commentators often have differing views on controversial decisions.
- RCB's victory secured their spot in the next qualifier.
New Delhi, May 28 (NationPress) Former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has expressed his disapproval of Rishabh Pant, the captain of Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), for retracting a run-out appeal from the non-striker's end during their final match in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 against the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).
In the match held at the BRSABV Ekana Stadium in Lucknow, on the fifth delivery of the 17th over of RCB's innings, spinner Digvesh Rathi halted his bowling action and executed a run-out of PBKS's stand-in captain Jitesh Sharma at the non-striker's end. Rathi appealed, but the third umpire ruled Jitesh not out, as the bowler had apparently completed his delivery stride.
Regardless of what the third umpire decided, Jitesh Sharma would have been safe because Pant informed the on-field umpires of his intention to withdraw the appeal. While commentators praised this decision as a commendable display of sportsmanship, Ashwin, who executed a similar run-out against Jos Buttler in IPL 2019, did not share the same sentiment.
Despite Rathi wanting to pursue a review, Pant opted against it. The on-field umpires still referred the matter to the third umpire, who ruled it not out.
“Digvesh Rathi landed on his front foot, and Jitesh Sharma was within his crease. Therefore, in all technical aspects, this is not out. After breaking the stumps, Michael Gough asked Rathi if he was appealing, not 'are you sure.' Rathi confirmed he was appealing, leading to a review by the third umpire,” Ashwin stated.
“The third umpire concluded that the bowler had crossed his delivery stride and the batsman was inside the crease, resulting in a decision of not out. The commentators said, 'Rishabh Pant has withdrawn the appeal. What an exceptional act of sportsmanship.' Come on, let’s move past this.”
“Rishabh Pant is an outstanding cricketer. He achieved a century in 61 balls, scoring 118 runs—a remarkable performance. This won't be the first or the last of Rishabh Pant's achievements on the cricket field. I eagerly await the England Test series to see his batting. I am a huge fan of Rishabh Pant,” Ashwin added on his YouTube channel.
Interestingly, Jitesh went on to score an unbeaten 85 off just 33 balls, helping RCB secure a six-wicket victory against LSG and clinch their Qualifier 1 spot against Punjab Kings at Mullanpur in New Chandigarh on Thursday.
Ashwin, who retired from international cricket last year during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in Australia, felt that Pant should have supported Rathi, arguing that withdrawing the appeal was a debasement of the bowler, who emerged as one of LSG's standout performers in IPL 2025.
“A captain's responsibility is to support his players and not diminish a bowler's stature. Why vilify a young player in front of millions? Why make a bowler feel belittled? This is genuinely humiliating,” Ashwin emphasized.
“Such actions can make a bowler feel inadequate, discouraging them from similar actions in the future. Comments may suggest he shouldn't do it again, but why not? Digvesh Rathi isn't a personal acquaintance of mine; I don't know him. However, I believe that actions like this can scar a bowler significantly. Unfortunately, because bowlers are often overlooked, appeals are withdrawn, leading to public humiliation,” he concluded.
Point of View
It's vital to recognize both sides of this incident. While sportsmanship is commendable, the role of a captain includes supporting their players. The conversation around this decision emphasizes the need for balance between fair play and respecting the integrity of the game, ensuring both bowlers and batters are treated with dignity.
NationPress
09/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Ashwin say about Pant's decision?
Ashwin criticized Pant for withdrawing the run-out appeal, stating it humiliated the bowler and undermined his performance.
Why was the run-out appeal withdrawn?
Pant withdrew the appeal citing sportsmanship, but Ashwin argued it was detrimental to the bowler's confidence.
What impact could this decision have on bowlers?
According to Ashwin, such actions can scar bowlers and discourage them from making similar appeals in the future.
How did the commentators react?
Commentators praised Pant's decision as an act of sportsmanship, which Ashwin found problematic.
What was the outcome of the match?
RCB won the match against LSG, with Jitesh Sharma scoring an impressive 85 runs.
