A major debate has emerged over the controversial dismissal of Nitish Rana against CSK, where the bails were dropped even before the batsman went for the shot; However, the umpire backed off from calling it a no-ball.
Delhi Capitals are mathematically out of the competition as the Capitals have now lost six matches. Even an all-win situation would take them to 16 points, which, considering the performance of other teams, may not give them a place in the playoffs.
The failure that stood out after the game was the dismissal of Delhi Capitals left-handed batsman Nitish Rana, who has been in great form and has contributed in a few matches for the Capitals.
key points
- Nitish Rana’s dismissal against CSK created a big controversy during the IPL 2026 match in Delhi.
- The bails had already fallen off the stumps before Rana could hit the shot, creating confusion among the fans.
- Many questioned whether the umpires should have called this delivery a ‘dead ball’.
Nitish Rana and ‘hit wicket’ controversy
The Arun Jaitley Stadium has been difficult in the last few matches, and Delhi Capitals have struggled to bat first every time on their home track this season. Nitish Rana was caught by CSK fine leg fielder Noor Ahmed.
However, the main controversy arose when the video went viral on social media and the umpires were questioned whether they should have called it a dead ball, as it was clear that the bails had already fallen from the stumps before the batsman could play those shots.
However, controversy remained as to whether the bails were uprooted by CSK wicketkeeper Sanju Samson or by the batsman during his stance. However, it was noted that the bails fell due to the storm in Delhi and not due to contact with any player.
Under the laws of cricket, hit wicket comes into play when the batsman breaks his own wicket while playing a stroke or starting a run; However, in this case no such thing happened, hence hit wicket could not be implemented.
Was Nitish Rana out on ‘dead ball’? What does the rule book say?
The next controversy started when this ball should have been declared a dead ball. However, this will largely depend on when the bails fell and the relative timing of the bowler’s release of the ball.
Under MCC Law 20, the umpire may call a dead ball if there is a significant distraction or “the bowler drops or does not deliver the ball.”
According to Law 20.4.2.6, either umpire shall call and signal dead ball when “the striker is distracted by any noise or movement or in any other way while preparing to take or receive a delivery.”
However, in the case of Nitish Rana, since the bowler had released the ball before the bails fell from the stumps, the circumstances could not have fazed the batsman in any way; Therefore, it cannot be called a ‘dead ball’ in any sense.
Chennai Super Kings are truly back in the playoff race
Chennai Super Kings have once again made a comeback and have managed to win 5 matches this season too. After a poor start to the tournament, they have won five of their last eight matches.
The Super Kings now have Sanju Samson in form, while captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and Karthik Sharma have shown excellent form in recent games. The youngster is finally playing well with the bat and is a good fit in the middle-order.
They now have four more matches left, and in case of all wins their run rate will also increase to 18 points with a definite increase. So, it seems clear that they are indeed back in the playoff race.
Also read: IPL 2026 playoff venues revealed; Ahmedabad will replace Bengaluru as the final host
