“A Lot of Pressure on Umpires”: Sangakkara Discusses Controversial Dismissal of Sanju Samson vs. DC

In the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 match number 56 between the Delhi Capitals (DC) and Rajasthan Royals (RR), Sanju Samson’s ejection caused a major controversy. The visiting skipper has placed his side in a comfortable position as they pursue 222, and he was aiming for his first century of the year. But in the sixteenth over, he attempted to go over Mukesh Kumar’s bowling barrier, only to be caught by Shai Hope close to the long-off line.

Despite Hope’s incredible effort, it seemed as if his feet touched the boundary cushion as he finished the grab. Although they saw the video, the umpires were given the benefit of the doubt. Sanju was so upset over the situation that he got into a violent argument with the umpires. The team lost by 20 runs, and the R.R. captain was removed at 86.

The decision shocked the RR dugout, and Kumara Sangakkara, the team’s director of cricket, was among the disgruntled individuals. During the post-match news conference, the former captain of Sri Lanka gave a detailed explanation of the team’s stance on the dismissal and shared details about their discussions with the umpires.

Replays and angles have a role. You may believe that the foot has touched at times. The game was in a critical phase; therefore, it was difficult for the third umpire to call. Nevertheless, it occurred. Although we may disagree, you must ultimately respect the third umpire’s ruling. Our viewpoints are very different. We will share it with the umpires, of course, but I felt that we ought to have watched the game at home instead. After RR’s loss, Sangakkara told the press, “Delhi played well.”

I was just curious about the process and whether there was any uncertainty. The TV umpire’s decision will be followed by the on-field umpire. It is mandatory for players to follow, and you may voice your concerns directly to the umpire or via the umpire’s report. We adhere to procedure; athletes and umpires are under a great deal of strain. We make every effort to figure things out,” he said.

For violating the IPL Code of Conduct, Sanju was fined.

Due to his violation of the IPL Code of Conduct, the captain is facing serious consequences. He has been fined thirty percent of his match money. The reason for Samson’s 86 during RR’s fruitless 222-run chase on Tuesday was not made clear, but it could have something to do with his argument with the umpires after he was removed in the 16th over following a catch taken by Shai Hope close to the boundary lines.

According to IPL Code of Conduct Article 2.8, Samson committed a Level 1 offense. He acknowledged the offense and consented to the match referee’s punishment. The IPL stated in a statement that the match referee’s decision is definitive and enforceable for Level 1 violations of the Code of Conduct.