KKR vs LSG: Did Digvesh Rathi Cheat Against Kolkata? Controversy Deepens Over Finn Allen's Catch

Powered by a blistering innings from Mukul Chaudhary, the Lucknow Super Giants defeated the Kolkata Knight Riders on their home turf on Thursday. While this match is primarily being remembered for Mukul's innings, a catch taken by Digvesh Rathi has become a subject of controversy. It is being alleged that Rathi concealed the truth regarding this incident.

The incident occurred right at the beginning of the match. On the fourth delivery of the second over, Kolkata batsman Finn Allen attempted a big shot. The ball took the top edge of his bat and flew towards the third-man region, where Rathi was stationed. Rathi sprinted across and latched onto the catch right near the boundary line. Finn Allen was subsequently dismissed, having scored nine runs.

The Controversy Ensues

Rathi's catch has become the root of the controversy because replays appeared to show his foot brushing ever so slightly against the boundary line. As the situation was somewhat ambiguous, the third umpire's assistance was sought. After reviewing the footage from multiple angles, the third umpire ruled it "Out"; however, upon repeated viewing, it appeared that Rathi's foot had indeed made slight contact with the boundary. Commentator Aakash Chopra also raised questions regarding the incident, and it is being argued that Rathi should have demonstrated honesty in this matter; had his foot touched the boundary, he would have undoubtedly known, and he ought to have disclosed that information. It is this very catch that has sparked the controversy. On social media, questions are now being raised—ranging from Rathi's conduct to the third umpire's decision and even the legitimacy of Lucknow's victory.

Mukul's Magnificent Innings

In this match, Kolkata posted a total of 181 runs for the loss of four wickets. A defeat for Lucknow seemed all but inevitable, as they had lost six wickets for just 126 runs by the 14.4-over mark. It was at this juncture that Mukul took charge of the innings, playing a blistering knock of 54 runs off just 27 balls to steer his team to victory. His innings was studded with seven sixes and two fours.