IPL 2024: Virat Kohli Out or Not Out? Here’s What the Waist-Height No-Ball Rule Says
Virat Kohli erupted in anger when he was given out early in RCB's chase.
The ex-RCB skipper, Virat Kohli had a heated conversation with the umpire after he ruled him out in just the 3rd over of RCB’s run-chase of 223 against KKR at Eden Gardens in their IPL 2024 clash on Sunday, April 21.
Hardly anyone, especially Virat Kohli, could comprehend what just happened as Harshit Rana, the young KKR bowler, pulled off a caught and bowled after a slower delivery that slipped out of his hand.
Virat Kohli was bamboozled by the lack of pace in that full toss, offering a leading edge that was easily taken by the bowler Harshit Rana. Kohli didn’t leave immediately, as the on-field umpires referred the decision to the third umpire for review.
With tension escalating, the replays reviewed by the third umpire depicted Virat Kohli positioned well outside the popping crease, trying to nullify early swing.
Using ball-tracking technology in the IPL, the waist height of all players at the normal standing position at the popping crease is stored and applied for waist-high no-balls. The on-air commentators confirmed this, mentioning that the data of the players was collected at the starting of the season.
Understanding ICC Rules on Waist-High No-Balls
According to rule 41.7 of ICC regulations: Any delivery passing or that would have passed, without pitching, above waist height of the striker standing upright at the popping crease, is considered unfair, regardless of its potential to cause injury to the striker. If the bowler delivers such a ball, the umpire must immediately call and signal No ball.
As per the ICC rule, the ball must be above the waist height of the striker standing upright at the popping crease. In Sunday’s case against KKR, Virat Kohli was well beyond the popping crease.
