Fans Slam Umpires After Smriti Mandhana Controversial Dismissal
Indian opener Smriti Mandhana was given out on a disputed catch, sparking outrage over insufficient replay angles in a crucial World Cup match.
India Women registered a comfortable victory against Bangladesh in the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup at Old Trafford. Chasing 137, Shafali Verma led the charge with a rapid half-century. However, her opening partner Smriti Mandhana fell early, triggering a controversy over the umpiring.
Mandhana was dismissed in the third over off Marufa Akter, with Rabeya Khan taking a diving catch at cover. The on-field umpires referred the decision to the third umpire, who reviewed only two angles before ruling Mandhana out. Replays suggested the catch was extremely close, leading many fans to question the lack of camera angles.
Social media erupted with criticism aimed at the third umpire, the ECB, and the ICC for the limited replay facility. Several fans argued that Mandhana should have been given the benefit of doubt in such a high-stakes game. Despite the controversy, India went on to win the match comfortably.