Last Updated on 2 years by Charbel Coorey
Cricket News: Out or not out? What does the rule say about the Michael Neser catch? | Michael Neser catch: within the rules?
The New Year’s Day clash between Brisbane Heat and Sydney Sixers was memorable in more ways than one. Josh Brown announced himself to the competition in a game where a total of 433 runs were scored, Nathan McSweeney also played a blinder, and the Sixers were in with a chance right up until the final two overs.
In a crucial game with regards to their playoff hopes, the Heat held on to win by 15 runs. However, with 26 to win off the final 11 balls and Jordan Silk on fire, BBL 12 had its newest big talking point.
Michael Neser took a catch that sent a reminder of how complicated cricket’s rules can be. After having caught the ball inside the boundary, Neser’s momentum then took him over the ropes and thus threw the ball in the air to avoid a six. In another attempt to avoid a six, Neser then jumped to handle the ball again, launched it back in the field of play and then completed the catch.
Michael Neser catch: out or not out? Here is what the rule says
Law 19.5.2 states that “A fielder who is not in contact with the ground is considered to be grounded beyond the boundary if his/her final contact with the ground, before his/her first contact with the ball after it has been delivered by the bowler, was not entirely within the boundary.”
Put simply, the first contact with the ball must be inside the boundary. Then, the fielder can’t be touching the ball and ground at the same time outside the boundary.
This is why Michael Neser jumped when handling the ball outside the rope.
Opinion divided on whether rule should be changed
Whether you believe the rule should be changed or not, it was a terrific piece of fielding by Neser. To have such awareness of the rules and to execute under pressure was a fine show of skill by the Brisbane Heat pacer.
Fans calling for rule change:
However, the general consensus among fans on social media is that the rule should be changed.