Rohit Sharma in 3rd T20I vs Afghanistan© BCCI/Sportzpics
India captain Rohit Sharma produced the performance of a lifetime in the third T20I of the 3-match series against Afghanistan on Wednesday. Rohit’s unbeaten knock of 121 runs laid the foundation of a thrilling clash that found its result after two Super Overs. While Rohit deservedly earned praise from fans on social media, a decision of his in the first Super Over did trigger a huge debate. With India needing 2 runs to win from the final ball of the first eliminator, Rohit decided to walk out, paving the way for Rinku Singh to replace him at the non-striker’s end. But, it wasn’t clarified whether he retired hurt or retired out.
Rohit then returned to the pitch for the second Super Over after Jaiswal failed to hit 2 runs off the final ball, as the scores were tied again. The question arose if Rohit was even eligible to come out to bat the next time.
According to ICC’s playing conditions for men’s T20Is, “[a]ny batsman dismissed in any previous Super Over shall be ineligible to bat in any subsequent Super Over.”
The controversy arose as the umpires are yet to provide clarity on whether Rohit was retired hurt or retired out. If Rohit was ‘retired hurt’, he is considered as “retired not out” and is eligible to bat again. But, if he was ‘retired out’, he wasn’t eligible to come out to bat for the second time.
Rohit Sharma retired out and sent Rinku Singh so he can run faster.
What a move. #INDvAFG #Superover #rohit pic.twitter.com/4vzjY6tKYr
— Arfat Khan (@Arfatkhan011) January 17, 2024
Speaking at the post-match presentation ceremony, Rohit himself was overwhelmed having come out to bat three times in the match.
“I don’t remember when was the last time this happened. I think I batted 3 times in one of the IPL games,” he said.
“Creating the partnership was important and we (Rinku and I) kept talking to each other to not lose that intent in big games and it was a good game for us to be in, the pressure was there and was important to bat long and deep and not compromise on the intent we want to show.” Afghanistan skipper Ibrahim Zadran was pleased with his team’s effort on the night,” he added.
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