Third umpire nearly deprives Azhar Ali of his ton

Richard Illingworth was unsure of which button to press at the MCG


Sports Desk December 27, 2016
PHOTO: AFP

Pakistan right-hand batsman Azhar Ali nearly had a mini heart-attack on day two of the second Test match against Australia as he was about to complete his ton in Melbourne.

Azhar, who was batting on 93 in the 69th over of the Test, had to dive back in at the non-striker's end when Asad Shafiq drove a Jackson Bird delivery straight to the stumps.

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The third umpire, when asked to take a look at the event, was found unsure of which button to press to announce his not-out decision.

And when the screen flashed the decision made by Richard Illingworth, it was confirmed that he had pressed the wrong button.

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Azhar, the crowd and all the Australian players went into a shock for a moment but then everyone laughed at the confusion.

The screen soon flashed not-out and Azhar was allowed to complete his ton.

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Pakistan are 310-6 at the end of day two with only 101 overs bowled to them in a rain-curtailed match. Azhar (130*) will continue on day three with his partner Mohammad Amir who scored a 28 off 23 balls courtesy six boundaries.

Here is what happened

COMMENTS (1)

Fix | 7 years ago | Reply Yes that was hilarious and scary at the same time. Even the commentator was shouting' turn it back, turn it back, it's not out.' Well played Azhar, congrats! I'm afraid rain is going to be spoiler in this match although pak is doing well.
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