The final of the ICC Under 19 World Cup 2026 at Harare Sports Club reached a critical moment when England thought they had caught a ball, but the umpire ruled Vihaan Malhotra not out.
During the 28.1 over bowled by Farhan Ahmed, confusion arose among the England players as they debated the situation, showing their frustration.
What Happened on the Field?
Farhan Ahmed delivered a shorter ball that held its line on the pitch. Vihaan Malhotra tried to hit it straight but struck the inner part of his bat, causing the ball to loop back toward the bowler. Farhan quickly dived to his left, catching the ball with both hands and tumbling in the process, which initially suggested a successful catch.
The on-field umpires referred the decision to the third umpire to assess if the catch was clean.
Various camera angles showed that the ball might have touched the ground. A key moment occurred when Farhan, after diving, was seen pressing the ball onto the ground as he got up. This was crucial in the decision-making process.
The rule that informed the Third Umpire’s decision is as follows:
According to Law 33.3 – Making a Catch:
The act of making a catch starts when the ball first contacts a fielder’s body and ends when the fielder gains complete control of both the ball and their own movement.
For a catch to be valid, a fielder must maintain complete control while ensuring no part of the ball touches the ground.
Although Farhan showed control during the catch, he failed to maintain it when he stood up and pressed the ball against the ground. This violation of the rule led to the decision.
The third umpire ultimately ruled in favor of the batter, resulting in Vihaan Malhotra being declared not out.
The England players voiced their discontent regarding the umpire’s decision, but the umpire upheld his original call.
