Sri Lanka’s T20I captain Wanindu Hasaranga strongly criticized umpire Lyndon Hannibal, suggesting that he should find another job, following an incident in the third T20I against Afghanistan in Dambulla. The controversy arose when Hannibal did not call a no-ball on a high full toss delivered by Wafadar Momand, which passed above waist height without pitching, a situation that should constitute a no-ball according to ICC playing conditions.
Hasaranga voiced his discontent, asserting that international matches should not witness such errors. He emphasized that an umpire unable to discern such a blatant violation might not be suited for international cricket, hinting that they should contemplate another profession.
The incident unfolded in a tense final over as Sri Lanka faced the challenge of scoring 11 runs off the last three balls. With the delivery considered legal and Kamindu Mendis not making contact with the full toss, Sri Lanka then needed 11 runs off the last two balls.
Kamindu reportedly requested a no-ball and showed signs of intending to review the decision. However, the current ICC playing conditions only permit player reviews for umpire decisions on no-balls when a potential dismissal is at stake.
Highlighting the inconsistency in the review system, Hasaranga pointed out a limitation: while the third umpire can review front-foot no-balls, they face restrictions for other types. Expressing confusion about the umpire’s decision, he questioned the square-leg umpire’s thought process during the incident.
Despite the controversial incident, Sri Lanka went on to lose the match by three runs, giving Afghanistan their only victory of the tour. However, Sri Lanka had already secured the series with a 2-1 lead.
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