T20 World Cup 2024: Outdated ICC Rule Costs Bangladesh Victory Against South Africa

The T20 World Cup 2024 witnessed another controversy surrounding the dead-ball rule, this time in the nail-biting encounter between Bangladesh and South Africa at the Nassau County Cricket Stadium in New York.

Bangladesh’s agonizing four-run defeat, despite a valiant chase of a modest 113-run target, has reignited debate about the fairness of the dead-ball regulation.

The drama happened in the 17th over. Mahmadullah, adjudged LBW by umpire Sam Nogajski, reviewed the decision which was overturned. However, Bangladesh were denied the four runs for leg-byes as Nogajski’s call came before the ball reached the boundary.

This decision proved pivotal. Bangladesh stretched the chase to the final over but fell short by a mere four runs. Fans on social media expressed outrage, claiming the dead-ball rule cost Bangladesh a legitimate chance at victory.

What is the Dead-Ball Rule?

The dead-ball rule dictates that if an on-field umpire gives a batter out LBW (even if overturned on review), no extra runs (leg-byes or byes) are awarded. On the other hand, the batting team receives leg-bye runs if the initial not-out decision by the umpire stands after review.

Bangladesh’s Fightback and South Africa’s Grit

Despite the controversy, credit must be given to Bangladesh for their spirited batting effort on a challenging pitch.

Mahmadullah played a crucial role in extending the run-chase. However, South Africa’s bowlers, particularly Keshav Maharaj in the final over, held their nerve to secure a historic win, defending their lowest ever total in a T20 World Cup match.

With this victory, South Africa became the first team in this season of the T20 World Cup, 2024 to qualify for the Super 8s stage with three wins from three matches.