In a high-stakes clash between Australia and South Africa at the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, an electrifying moment unfolded when Proteas’ fast bowler, Kagiso Rabada, delivered a masterstroke to dismiss the Australian stalwart, Steve Smith. The dismissal came in the form of a contentious LBW decision that left both players and spectators in awe.
With the match hanging in the balance, Rabada unleashed a searing delivery at an impressive pace of 141kph. Smith, the ever-dependable Australian batsman, attempted a glance against the in-slanting short-of-length delivery. However, his execution faltered, missing the ball and prompting a confident LBW appeal from the South African camp.
In a twist of fate, Smith, confident that the ball was missing the leg stump, immediately signaled his disagreement with the decision. However, South Africa’s wicketkeeper-batsman, Quinton de Kock, backed by skipper Temba Bavuma, was convinced otherwise. The decision was referred to the third umpire for a meticulous review.
Upon scrutiny, the replays revealed a shocking revelation – the ball was not only hitting the leg stump but was on course to dislodge it. Despite Smith’s substantial shuffle across the crease, the ball’s trajectory was perfectly aligned with the leg stump. To the naked eye, it seemed like the delivery would miss the leg, but HawkEye, the technology designed to track the ball’s path, disagreed vehemently.
The decision, validated by three reds on HawkEye, marked a colossal moment in the game. Smith, a batsman renowned for his precision and agility, appeared shell-shocked as he reluctantly trudged off the field.
