IPL 2024| Twitter erupts over Nitin Menon's perplexing decision granting Mumbai unfair advantage

Opting to field after winning the toss proved advantageous for the Mumbai Indians, particularly during the powerplay. Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Madhwal swiftly dismissed Virat Kohli and Will Jacks, setting a promising tone. Despite this setback, Faf du Plessis and Rajat Patidar steadied the ship for the visiting team, constructing an impressive 82-run partnership. However, Royal Challengers Bengaluru faced continued adversity as they lost Patidar and Glenn Maxwell during the middle overs, leaving the scorecard at 149/4 by the 16th over. The turning point occurred in the 17th over where the on-field umpire, Nitin Menon sought assistance from the third umpire following a contentious wicket claim by the Mumbai fielders.

On the second delivery of the 17th over, Jasprit Bumrah delivered a full-length ball outside off stump. The Proteas attempting a down-the-ground shot missed the ball entirely allowing Mumbai's wicketkeeper Ishan Kishan to collect the white rock. Both Kishan and Bumrah appealed fervently but with no reviews left for the home side captain Hardik Pandya was unable to challenge the decision.

In a surprising turn, Menon wished to check for a possible nicke, and referred the decision to the TV umpire Virender Sharma. Despite the absence of a formal review, UltraEdge technology determined that there was no contact between bat and ball, with the sound heard being the bat hitting the ground. However, the decision to involve the third umpire without a legitimate DRS review raised eyebrows, suggesting potential bias towards the home team.

The Twitter community expressed confusion and criticism over Menon's decision, questioning its fairness and perceived unaware advantage to the Mumbai Indians.

May be!

Yeah! Umpire's review!

MI didn't review!

He was checking for a catch for himself!

Just Umpire's review!

Uffff!

Relaxxxx!!!!

Yenu?

Read cricbuzz commentary!