Controversial LBW decision involving Phoebe Litchfield ignites fierce debate in India vs Australia Women's T20 World Cup clash; officials defend call

During India's Women's T20 World Cup match against Australia on Sunday, Phoebe Litchfield found herself in a rather amusing situation when she was initially given out LBW by the on-field umpire Sue Redfern. The incident took place at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium while Litchfield was attempting a switch hit against bowler Deepti Sharma in the 17th over. However, Litchfield decided to challenge the decision and after a review, she was ultimately declared not out, much to the surprise of everyone watching.

What stood out was not just the DRS appeal, but the conversation it triggered. India's Smriti Mandhana, who walked towards the umpire, seemingly argued that once Litchfield switched her stance, the leg-stump rule should apply as if she were a right-handed batter.

While the third umpire ultimately upheld decided to overturn the original LBW call, stating that the ball had pitched outside the leg stump in relation to Litchfield's position as a left-hander, it didn’t come without discontent. Smriti Mandhana and Deepti Sharma were visibly frustrated, expressing their belief that the switch hit should have changed the calculation.

According to law 36.3, ‘The off side of the striker’s wicket shall be determined by the striker’s batting position at the moment the ball comes into play for that delivery’.

However, the fans on X were disappointed with the ruling, calling for potential change to the law to accommodate for the batter's shift in position.

Here are some of the reactions:

Though Litchfield had already begun walking back to the pavilion, she resumed her innings and went on to score a quickfire 15 from 9 balls, which included a six off Shreyanka Patil over mid-wicket. Australia posted 151/8, with Grace Harris top-scoring with a 40-run knock, while Tahlia McGrath and Ellyse Perry contributed 32 each. Renuka Singh and Deepti Sharma were the standout bowlers for India, picking up two wickets apiece.

Litchfield’s cameo added a boost to Australia's total, marking her third appearance in the tournament, having already made contributions against Sri Lanka and New Zealand earlier.