Nepal captain Rohit Paudel was visibly angered as he was given out LBW under bizarre circumstances in the second ODI between Nepal and United States in the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 underway at Kirtipur, after replays suggested that the ball has only touched his glove.
In a bizarre turn of events, skipper of the Nepal team was left infuriated when he was declared out LBW during Nepal's batting when they were in commanding position at 194/2 in the 38th over. While Paudel was comfortably batting at 46 and seemed all set for a half-century.
The 23-year-old who was facing Milind Kumar, attempted a fine sweep, but the ball just caught his glove before rolling to the keeper. The appeal from the US team was strong, so the umpire instantly raised his finger in the favor of the visiting side, but a quick scan on TV indicated the ball hit the glove or top edge.
Paudel Reacts Furiously After Controversial Decision
The incident saw the Nepal captain react vehemently at the field as he swung his bat and seemed to tell the umpire that it had caught the glove, even as the keeper looked equally stunned, as he slammed the bat against his gloves. Since there was no DRS in the game, the captain could do nothing about it and had to walk back to the pavilion.
The wicket of the captain left the online fans debating one of the biggest umpiring blunders seen in ODIs of late, with many calling out the performance.
Nepal Still Fight Back Strongly
Nepal still managed to pile up 317/8 with the bat in the first innings, despite their captain falling in controversial circumstances.
Nepal are a team fighting for survival with this match incredibly significant in terms of standings at ICC Cricket World Cup League 2. It is a qualifying competition for the 2027 Cricket World Cup.
Nepal currently sit fifth out of the eight sides taking part, ane are aiming to reach fourth and avoid the Qualifier Playoff round to get to the next stage.
Despite the controversial decision, Nepal went on to win the match by 122 runs. The Asian side wrapped up USA's innings at 195 after handing them a target of 318.