India Women vs Australia Women: Why did the third umpire rule Phoebe Litchfield not out?

The India-Australia semifinal of the Women's ODI World Cup had a very interesting moment in the 16th over that was bowled by Shree Charani. Phoebe Litchfield, who was batting on 62, attempted a reverse sweep and the ball flew to short third where Amanjot Kaur completed the catching formalities.

 

OUT TO NOT OUT

 

The on-field umpire after a chat with her square leg partner ruled it out, resulting in an eruption of joy amongst the Indian fielders. Litchfield, however, was very reluctant to leave the field and Elysse Perry urged her partner to stay. Eventually the third umpire after seeing a couple of replays reversed the on-field call.

 

WHAT HAPPENED?

 

Litchfield's reverse sweep had actually deflected onto the pitch and then once again hit the bottom of the bat before it reached Amanjot at short third. Given that it had flown off the bat at good pace, it had to be a bump ball and it was strange to see the on-field umpire raise her finger instantly without even checking for a replay.

 

TECHNOLOGY SAVES THE DAY

 

Fortunately for Litchfield and Australia, technology stepped in and the third umpire didn't need many replays to reverse the initial decision from the on-field umpires. This could be a huge moment in the game, given how well Litchfield is batting.

 

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