Obstructing the field is a rare occurance in a cricket match.
But Victorian batsman Sam Harper has fallen victim in a bizarre dismissal in the Marsh Cup on Thursday.
South Australian bowler Dan Worrell attempted to run Harper out by throwing the ball at the striker’s end.
Harper was well out of his crease when he stepped in line with the ball and blocked the run-out attempt.
He was eventually given out after lengthy consultation between the on-field umpires, video review umpires and both sides.
Former Australian all-rounder Andrew Symonds believes the right decision was made.
“The ball would have probably gone on to hit middle and leg stump, so the throw was straight,” Symonds told Fox Cricket.
“When the ball makes contact with his legs he’s a foot outside his ground, so he’s preventing the ball going back to hit the stumps.
“It’s a classic example of obstruction.”
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Symonds continued: “Because it’s not a regular occurrence that’s why it might be a sticky situation.
“It’s not as if the South Australians are showing any sort of bad spirit. It’s a rule and it’s part of the game. Harper’s well short of his ground.
“People might be shaking their heads, but that’s out … the right decision’s been made.”
Watch Sam Harper’s dismissal in the link below:
Ummm.... What? 🤨 Sam Harper is out for obstruction after moving into the path of a ball 🤷♂️ #sheffieldshield pic.twitter.com/z5SnoxUjPR
— Fox Cricket (@FoxCricket) April 8, 2021
