Suryakumr Yadav‘s catch David Miller ICC fielding rule has sparked intense debate following the dramatic T20 World Cup 2024 final. During the high-octane clash between India and South Africa, Suryakumar Yadav pulled off a sensational boundary catch to dismiss David Miller in the final over. Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra weighed in on the controversy, clarifying whether the catch was legal under the ICC’s updated fielding regulations.
Aakash Chopra takes a jibe on Suryakumar Yadav’s boundary rope catch
Aakash Chopra, known for his sharp analysis, took to social media to clear the air regarding Surya’s match-turning effort. He emphasized that the catch aligned with the current ICC fielding rules, which allow a fielder to complete a catch even if airborne outside the boundary — provided they were not grounded outside the rope while making the initial contact with the ball.
“Neser took a catch by going behind the ropes and doing a bunny hop, and we all said ‘Wow, what a catch.’ He was not alone. After that, (Glenn) Maxwell also took one catch, and there are a lot more, but it won’t happen now. The ICC have changed the laws. This bunny hop thing is not allowed. So was Surya’s catch of David Miller in the final legal as per today’s rule,? Aakash Chopra speaking on his You Tube channel.
Suryakumar Yadav’s Catch David Miller ICC Fielding Rule – What the Law Actually States
According to the updated ICC fielding law (Rule 19.5.2), a fielder is permitted to leap from within the boundary, touch the ball mid-air outside the boundary, and return to complete the catch — so long as their last contact with the ground before touching the ball was inside the playing area. This rule has been in place since 2013 but continues to confuse fans in high-pressure moments.
Legal or Controversial? Here’s the Final Word
Despite the debate among viewers, Suryakumar Yadav’s acrobatic catch was 100% legal as per today’s rules. Aakash Chopra clarified that Suryakumar Yadav timed his leap perfectly and never touched the ground beyond the boundary while in possession of the ball, thus making it a clean and fair dismissal. The catch helped India secure a thrilling win and lifted the T20 World Cup trophy after more than a decade.