SIX or OUT? ICC on Michael Neser’s controversial catch in BBL | What is the rule?

SIX or OUT? ICC on Michael Neser’s controversial catch in BBL: Michael Neser pulled off an incredible catch in the high-scoring Big Bash League match between Brisbane Heat and Sydney Sixers, which the former won by 15 runs. Neser made the crucial catch in the last over of the Sixers’ massive 225-run chase as Jordan Silk was dismissed for 41 runs off 23 deliveries.

Silk was batting brilliantly in the middle and had already hit three 4s and two 6s. Another maximum would have been possible if the catch had failed, but Neser’s sensible move brought an end to Silk’s outstanding performance in the middle.

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Now, this catch has brought everyone’s attention as this wasn’t a normal regulatory catch. As Silk lofted Mark Steketee towards long-off, Neser first held the ball within the boundary before tossing it up when he realized he would run over the rope. The amazing thing was what came next. Neser, while outside the Boundary line, then timed a perfect jump to catch the ball and throw it back inside the rope while he was not touching the ground, then returned into the field of play to hold the catch.

The on-field decision declared him OUT. As all the experts and specialists in the world began turning the pages of the rule book, the heat rose and debates started. The videos of the catch have been trending for two days now, and towards the end of the contentious catch, the ICC released an ‘Explainer‘ to the catch that had everyone talking.

Fans and experts alike questioned his actions despite his excellent fielding, which led them to research the rules. Fox Cricket pundit and Australian icon Adam Gilchrist was one of the many confused individuals who questioned why it was given out. Later, he admitted that the dismissal was legal and in accordance with the laws.

What is the rule?

As per the rules laid by Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC):

1- Law 19.5.2: 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.

2- Law 33.2.1: A catch will be fair only if, in every case, either the ball, at any time, or any fielder in contact with the ball, is not grounded beyond the boundary before the catch is completed.

3- Law 33.2.2: Furthermore, a catch will be fair if (-33.2.2.4) a fielder catches the ball after it has crossed the boundary in the air, provided that the conditions in 33.2.1 are met.

After the match, Neser told Channel Seven, “I knew [Matt] Renshaw did it a couple of years ago. I didn’t know if they had changed the rules so I thought I would give it a crack. Thankfully they didn’t change the rules.”

It’s important to understand that the fielder can finish the catch however they like, as long as their feet are not grounded with the ball over the boundary line and their first touch of the ball is inside the boundary line. The batter was rightfully declared out because Neser made the initial touch with the ball, timed his jump, and successfully made the catch.

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