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Sachin Tendulkar: Legendary West Indies umpire Steve Buckner has admitted years later that he once wrongly dismissed India’s legendary batsman Sachin Tendulkar.
Legendary West Indies umpire Steve Buckner has admitted years later that he once wrongly dismissed India’s legendary batsman Sachin Tendulkar. One of the most controversial moments in cricket history has been discussed around this confession. The former umpire himself accepted the decision which Indian fans considered wrong for a long time.
The incident took place in the 2003–04 season during the India–Australia Test match in Brisbane. Tendulkar was in great form at that time. But after strong appeals from Australian bowler Jason Gillespie and wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist, Buckner gave him out lbw. India suffered a big blow in the match as Sachin went back to Sajghar after scoring only 3 runs.
Buckner said 22 years later that he knew the decision was wrong, as the ball would have missed the stumps. He admits, people still talk about that incident. According to him, mistakes can happen in life and he accepts it. In this comment, the old debate has come up again. The question arises as to why Buckner gave out despite knowing the wrong decision
At the time of the incident, Tendulkar wanted to release the ball, but the ball hit the pad. It was then that the Australian team made a strong appeal and the umpire gave the finger. Later replays showed that the ball would have gone well over the stumps. It was clear that the decision was a big mistake and his innings fell victim to the wrong decision.
Commentating on that match was Tony Greig, who bluntly called it a “terrible decision”. His comments also sparked a wide debate at the time. Buckner’s confession after all these years has brought back the controversial moment and sparked a renewed debate among cricket lovers.
Kolkata, West Bengal
