Described: The reason Imam's Kusal Mendis catch was allowed even though the fielder went past the initial boundary marker May 14, 2024

Following Kusal Mendis’ century against Pakistan in Hyderabad, Imam-ul-Haq made a catch that caused several people to take notice.

Kusal Mendis broke the record for the fastest World Cup century by a Sri Lankan player and the sixth-fastest in the tournament’s history during a 2023 World Cup match in Hyderabad.

Mendis finally hit a 77-ball 122, which featured 14 fours and six sixes, after reaching his ton in 65 balls. When he was removed in the 29th over, Sri Lanka was down 218-3.

Eventually, Mendis holed out to deep mid-wicket off Hassan Ali (4-71), and Imam-ul-Haq managed to hold on to the ball even though he went over after losing his footing.

After the dismissal, there was a stir since it was clear that the boundary cushion had been moved and left a mark indicating its previous location. The playing field had grown larger because of the movement, which had been away from the batter.

Imam landed on the visible mark, but not before he took the catch inside the boundary rope.

Section 19.3.2 of the law stipulates that the item used for determining boundaries must be put back to its original position as soon as it is practical. In the event that play is in progress, this means as soon as the ball is dead.

Mendis would have scored six runs and survived if the Pakistani fielders had actually eliminated the boundary cushion (as per Law 19.3.1, “the boundary shall be considered to be in its original position”).

The boundary cushion had been moved for the duration of the current game, the ICC was informed by Wisden’s journalist on the scene.

The boundary cushion in Hyderabad was shifted during Pakistan’s match against the Netherlands, but it remained in the same spot for the match between Pakistan and Sri Lanka.