Mankading in Cricket: A Controversial Practice

Mankading, a tactic used in cricket, has sparked a debate among players and fans about its legitimacy in the sport. It involves a bowler running out the non-striker, who is the player on the opposing team at the opposite end of the pitch, while they are backing up too far before the delivery of the ball. This tactic was first used in the past by Indian cricketer Vinoo Mankad, giving it the name “mankading.”

History of Mankading

The origins can be traced back to 1947 during a tour of Australia by the Indian cricket team. During a match, Mankad noticed that the non-striker was frequently out of their crease at the point of delivery. In response, Mankad stopped in his delivery stride and removed the bails from the non-striker’s end, dismissing the player in the process.

 Mankad faced criticism for his actions, which some saw as unsportsmanlike. However, former Australian captain Don Bradman defended Mankad, stating that the laws of cricket make it clear that the non-striker must stay within their ground until the ball has been delivered.

Definition of Mankading

Mankading is a type of run-out dismissal in which the bowler attempts to run out the non-striker before the delivery of the ball. This is done by the bowler warning or not warning the non-striker and, if they leave their crease before the ball is delivered, attempting to run them out.

You can also read: Why did Deepti Sharma’s legal run out become the centre of controversy

Opinions on Mankading

Since a list of mankading incidents has taken place, the use of mankading has divided opinions among cricket players and fans. Some believe it is a legitimate tactic and that non-strikers should be held responsible for their actions. Others argue that it goes against the spirit of the game and is unsportsmanlike.

Legal Status of Mankading

Previously, mankading was considered unfair play according to Law 41 of the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC). However, the MCC has recently amended this law, and as of October 1, 2022, mankading will be considered a run-out instead of unfair play.

 This means that dismissing a batter who is out of their crease at the non-striker’s end before the delivery of the ball will now be considered a run-out. The revised laws have moved the method of effecting a run-out through mankading from the “unfair play” section to the “run-out” section in the Playing Conditions.

Conclusion

The revised laws surrounding mankading have sparked a new debate among cricket players and fans. Some believe it is a fair tactic, while others feel that it goes against the spirit of the game. However, the rules should be adhered to before sparking any controversy.

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