Steve Smith survives a controversial run-out chance at The Oval, fans erupts in the two sides.
During the 78th over of Australia’s first innings, Smith played a shot from Chris Woakes towards square leg and hurriedly ran for a couple of runs. However, England’s substitute fielder, George Ealham, quickly moved in from the boundary and threw the ball to the wicketkeeper, Jonny Bairstow. Bairstow dislodged the bails at the striker’s end while Smith was diving to make his ground.
With Smith’s clothes covered in dirt, he began making his way back to the pavilion, seemingly accepting his dismissal. Nevertheless, the on-field umpires decided to review the decision using the available technology and referred the matter to the third official, Nitin Menon.It was a tense moment as fans and players from both sides eagerly waited for the third umpire’s verdict. After a thorough examination of the replays, Nitin Menon made the crucial call, ruling Smith not out and granting him a second chance at the crease.
Upon reviewing the replays, it was evident that Jonny Bairstow had dislodged one of the bails before he had retrieved the ball. Third official Nitin Menon meticulously examined whether the other side of the bail was still properly in its groove at the moment when Steve Smith’s bat crossed the popping crease.In accordance with Law 29.1, which states that the wicket is considered broken when at least one bail is completely removed from the top of the stumps, or when one or more stumps is removed from the ground, Menon diligently assessed the footage for several minutes