Could Virat Kohli Have Been Out On 41 Vs Pakistan? A Look At The Obstructing The Field Rule

Virat Kohli played a stunning innings, scoring his 51st ODI century as India crushed Pakistan to enter the Champions Trophy semi-finals. However, an unusual moment in the match could have seen him dismissed while he was still at 41 runs. The Pakistani team had a golden chance, but they missed it.

Virat Kohli obstructed the field but was not given out.
Pakistan missed an opportunity to appeal.
Understanding the “Obstructing the Field” rule in cricket.

What Happened on the Field?

During the 21st over, bowled by Haris Rauf, Kohli played a shot towards the off-side and attempted a quick single. As the fielder threw the ball toward the non-striker’s end, Kohli, who had safely reached the crease, stopped the ball using his hands.

According to ICC rules, if Pakistan had appealed, Kohli could have been given out for obstructing the field. At that time, his dismissal could have shifted the momentum of the game.

Understanding the “Obstructing the Field” Rule

As per Law 37 in the MCC rulebook, a batter is out if they intentionally distract or obstruct the fielding side.

Key Conditions for Obstructing the Field:

If a batter deliberately uses their hands or body to block the ball, without trying to protect themselves.
If a batter prevents a fielder from taking a catch (unless a no-ball is called).
If a batter intentionally blocks a throw while the ball is in play.

📌 Important Note: If a batter is given out under this rule, the bowler does not get credit for the wicket.

Why Was Kohli Not Given Out?

The on-field umpires did not intervene because the fielding team must appeal for an obstruction to be considered. Since Pakistan did not appeal, the game continued, and Kohli went on to score a match-winning century.

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Could This Have Changed the Match Outcome?

If Pakistan had appealed and Kohli was given out at 41 runs, the match could have taken a different turn. Kohli was in great form, and removing him early could have shifted the momentum towards Pakistan.

Famous Cases of “Obstructing the Field” in Cricket

Here are some notable cricketers who were given out under this rare rule:

Ben Stokes (2015) – Out for blocking a throw with his hand vs. Australia.
Inzamam-ul-Haq (2006) – Given out for stopping the ball with his bat vs. India.
Mohinder Amarnath (1989) – Out for kicking the ball away vs. Sri Lanka.

Virat Kohli unknowingly risked his wicket, but Pakistan failed to seize the opportunity. The obstructing the field rule is one of cricket’s rarest modes of dismissal. While Kohli escaped this time, this incident highlights the importance of presence of mind on the field.

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