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In a recent Big Bash League (BBL) match between the Melbourne Renegades and the Brisbane Heat, an unusual situation arose when two Renegades bowlers were removed from the attack for infringing upon the protected area of the pitch. Captain Will Sutherland and bowler Fergus O’Neill were both found to have repeatedly stepped into this designated zone during their follow-throughs, despite prior warnings from the umpires.

BBL Match

The protected area, as defined by cricket regulations, is a central portion of the pitch intended to remain undisturbed to ensure fair play for both teams. Bowlers encroaching upon this area can cause damage, potentially affecting the behavior of the ball for subsequent deliveries. According to Law 41.13 of the MCC Laws of Cricket, it is considered unfair for a bowler to enter the protected area in their follow-through without reasonable cause, whether or not the ball is delivered. Repeated violations can lead to the bowler being suspended from bowling for the remainder of the innings.

https://talksport.com/sport/2780832/big-bash-controversy-bowlers-suspended-rule/

Brad Haddin

This incident sparked discussions among commentators and players alike. Former Australian cricketer Brad Haddin remarked on the rarity of such decisions in T20 cricket, especially considering the minimal damage that might occur during a short-format game. However, he acknowledged the importance of adhering to umpire warnings.

Despite the setbacks, the Melbourne Renegades successfully chased down the target of 197 runs, largely due to a stellar 95-run performance by Jake Fraser-McGurk. This victory eliminated the Brisbane Heat from the tournament.

The Big Bash League (BBL) controversy took place during a match between the Melbourne Renegades and the Brisbane Heat. Two Renegades bowlers, captain Will Sutherland and Fergus O’Neill, were removed from bowling mid-game for repeatedly stepping into the “protected area” of the pitch during their follow-throughs. Despite receiving prior warnings from the umpires, the bowlers continued to violate the rule, resulting in their suspension for the remainder of the innings.

The “protected area” is a central strip of the pitch intended to remain undamaged for fair play. This area is particularly crucial as any damage could influence the behavior of the ball, especially for spinners or uneven bounce later in the match. The rule is outlined in cricket’s MCC Laws (Law 41.13), which state that encroaching on this zone without reasonable cause is considered unfair, and repeated violations can lead to penalties, including the suspension of bowlers.