Asia Cup Rising Stars: A dramatic moment in the Asia Cup Rising Stars match between India A and Pakistan Shaheens sparked debate after a relay catch was overturned due to a newly updated boundary fielding rule.
India A vs Pakistan Shaheens: The Controversial Relay Catch
A tense scene unfolded during the India A and Pakistan Shaheens clash in the Asia Cup Rising Stars tournament on Sunday. The controversy erupted when a relay catch involving Nehal Wadhera and Naman Dhir was ruled not out by the third umpire, leaving the Indian side visibly confused.
India A, after struggling with a batting collapse, managed to post a modest 137 runs. Pakistan A opener Maaz Sadaqat began the chase confidently and reached a brisk fifty off just 31 balls. The incident occurred on the first delivery of the 10th over when Suyash Sharma drew Sadaqat into a lofted shot toward the deep boundary.
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The Relay Attempt That Sparked Confusion
Nehal Wadhera sprinted to intercept the ball near the rope. While airborne beyond the boundary, he tapped the ball back into play, and Naman Dhir completed what appeared to be a legitimate relay catch inside the field. Believing he was dismissed, Sadaqat started walking off.
However, the on-field umpires halted play and sent the decision to the third umpire. Moments later, the big screen flashed Not out, surprising the Indian players. Skipper Jitesh Sharma immediately approached the officials seeking clarity on the ruling.
The MCC Rule Change That Changed the Outcome
The decision was made in accordance with a revised boundary fielding regulation introduced by the MCC in June 2025. This update was designed to eliminate confusion around airborne relay efforts and repeated touches outside the playing area.
Under the previous law, only the first fielder’s position was assessed, allowing multiple airborne touches beyond the rope. The updated Law 19.5.2 states that every fielder involved must meet grounding criteria. A fielder may touch the ball once while airborne outside the boundary but must then land inside the field and stay there until the ball becomes dead.
Sub-Clause 19.5.2.1 specifies that if a fielder makes contact with the ball while airborne outside the playing area and then lands outside again, the ball is considered a boundary. In this situation, Wadhera’s first landing after touching the ball occurred outside the field, invalidating the catch.
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No Runs Awarded and a Shift in Momentum
Adding to the confusion, neither a six nor a run was credited to Pakistan Shaheens because the batters had not crossed during the play. With the reprieve, Maaz Sadaqat continued his confident innings and guided Pakistan Shaheens to an eight-wicket victory, ensuring their place in the semi-finals.
