The Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025 witnessed a controversial ‘not out’ decision that highlighted a recent change in cricket’s fielding regulations. A remarkable relay catch by India A’s Nehal Wadhera and Naman Dhir against Pakistan Shaheens was disallowed after review, leaving many questioning the ruling.
The incident revolved around the MCC’s revised Law 19.5.2, which governs how fielders near the boundary can operate, particularly when airborne. This rule, effective from June 2025, clarifies that a fielder making contact with the ball while jumping over the boundary rope must land back inside the field of play. If they land outside, the ball is treated as having crossed the boundary.
In this specific play, Wadhera made an incredible effort, reaching the ball beyond the boundary while in the air and managing to push it back towards Dhir. Dhir then completed the catch inside the boundary. However, Wadhera’s feet touched the ground outside the playing area after his initial contact with the ball. Consequently, under the new rule, the ball was considered dead as a boundary immediately after Wadhera’s airborne contact and subsequent landing outside. Even though Dhir held the catch cleanly, the prior infraction by Wadhera meant the dismissal could not stand. This ruling serves as a stark reminder of the precision required under contemporary cricket laws.