Abhishek Sharma was at the center of a controversial moment during the IPL 2026 clash between Kolkata Knight Riders and Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Eden Gardens as his dismissal sparked debate and visible frustration in the SRH camp.
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The left-hander’s blistering knock came to an abrupt end when he was adjudged caught at deep square leg by Blessing Muzarabani, just two runs shy of his half-century. Attempting a short delivery, Abhishek pulled hard towards the legs where Varun Chakaravarthy sprinted to his right and completed a low catch inches above the turf. While the KKR players immediately celebrated, Abhishek stood his ground, not convinced of the cleanliness of the game, prompting the on-field umpires to step up.
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The decision drew lively reactions, with SRH head coach Daniel Vettori visibly unhappy with the way the call played out while discussing with the umpires. Third referee Nitin Menon examined several entries, including zoom shots that offered different perspectives.
Some angles suggested that Chakaravarthy had his fingers under the ball, while others raised the possibility of the ball brushing the ground. On one play in particular, it appeared to show a slight upward movement consistent with contact with the turf, although such movement could also be the result of a fielder’s hand being raised after a clean snap. Without conclusive evidence to overturn the decision on the field, the benefit of the doubt rested with the fielder.
Chakaravarthy’s effort, remarkable considering he is not known for his fielding, proved decisive in shifting the momentum. Abhishek, who hit four fours and four sixes in a 21-ball 48, left visibly unhappy, gesticulating as he crossed the boundary rope after the knock that put SRH firmly on top.
Earlier, Kolkata Knight Riders opted to bowl after winning the toss, but Sunrisers Hyderabad started well through Abhishek and Travis Head (46). However, the innings was quickly losing momentum as Kartik Tyagi removed Head before Muzarabani turned the game around with a double strike in the same over. Ishan Kishan (14) succumbed to a well-judged catch by Rinku Singh in the sweep, followed by a dubious dismissal of Abhishek, prompting loud celebrations as KKR clawed their way back into the contest.
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Issued by:
Saurabh Kumar
Published on:
02 Apr 2026 20:53 IST
