The Women’s Premier League (WPL) made headlines for its unique set of rules and regulations during the first game of the tournament. Mumbai Indians (MI) skipper, Harmanpreet Kaur, challenged a wide call on the last ball of the 13th over during their game against Gujarat Giants (GT), leaving viewers stunned as it was the first time a DRS was used to challenge a wide call.
In the incident, GT batter Monica Patel missed a delivery down the leg side from MI left-arm spinner Saika Ishaque. The on-field umpire called it a wide, which meant an extra run for the batting team. However, MI wicketkeeper Yastika Bhatia and Kaur challenged the call through a DRS referral. Upon review, it was revealed that Patel had hit the ball with her gloves, and the wide call was overturned.
The incident highlighted the WPL’s unique DRS regulations, which allow teams to review wide and no-ball calls made against them, along with ‘out’ and ‘not out’ calls. The playing regulations state that a player can request a review of any decision taken by the on-field umpires concerning wide or no-ball. This transformation in DRS regulations gives teams a chance to save runs that can make a difference in the end result.
In T20 cricket, it is often these extra calls that can separate the two sides, and the WPL officials have given teams the chance to save runs through DRS reviews, not just refer for dismissals. The WPL’s open-minded approach to DRS regulations provides teams with an opportunity to challenge umpiring decisions that could have a significant impact on the match’s outcome.
Mumbai Indians got off to a flying start in the WPL, posting a massive total of 207-5 on the board, thanks to Kaur’s 30-ball 65. Gujarat Giants, in response, were bowled out for just 64, resulting in a convincing 143-run win for MI.
The incident during the game between MI and GT demonstrates how the WPL is an innovative and exciting addition to the cricketing world. The tournament’s unique set of rules and regulations has garnered attention and appreciation from cricket fans worldwide, making it one of the most-watched cricket tournaments globally.
In conclusion, the WPL’s decision to allow teams to review wide and no-ball calls made against them through DRS challenges is a welcome change to the existing rules and regulations of cricket. It provides teams with an opportunity to challenge decisions that could have a significant impact on the match’s outcome and saves runs that can make a difference between winning or losing the game. The WPL’s innovative approach to DRS regulations is a step in the right direction towards making cricket more exciting and engaging for fans worldwide.
