T20 World Cup final: Suryakumar's decisive catch sparks controversy

India emerged as champions of the T20 World Cup 2024, shattering South Africa's dreams of the maiden title in a seven-run victory last night.

However, a close catch by Indian player Suryakumar Yadav to prevent what could have been a sixer, sparked controversy if a "displaced rope" had affected the result.

The spectacular final over grab that sent David Miller packing when the Proteas needed 16 runs to win, sealed the victory for the Men in Blue.

The batter had hit a full toss for a six on a straight hit on Hardik Pandya's delivery but Suryakumar took a brilliant catch, which has also been regarded as the best grab of the entire tournament.

The ball looked certain to cross the boundary ropes but Suryakumar caught it while running. He juggled the ball and went over the ropes to avoid his feet touching the ropes, jumped back again and held on to the ball, which ultimately won the match for India.

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The decision went to the third umpire, Richard Kettleborough, who had a quick view at it and declared the catch legal, which ended Miller’s innings and eventually the Proteas’ hopes of lifting their maiden title.

Soon after India's victory a debate started on social media with some arguing that Surykumar’s shoe flicked the boundary ropes while grabbing the catch.

Not just that, the boundary ropes also looked out of position before the Indian took the match-winning catch.

As per the ICC’s playing conditions, the cushion is considered the boundary and not the white line which can be seen in the pictures. Section 19.3 states: "If a solid object used to mark the boundary is disturbed for any reason, then the boundary shall be considered to be in its original position."

It was further argued that the boundary rope should’ve been moved back into its original position. Section 19.3.2 states: “If a solid object used to mark the boundary is disturbed for any reason, the object shall be returned to its original position as soon as is practicable; if play is taking place, this shall be as soon as the ball is dead.”