In a bizarre turn of events during the Big Bash League on Saturday, January 18, two Melbourne Renegades bowlers were suspended from bowling for the same unusual reason.
What Happened in the Big Bash League (BBL) Match?
Playing at Docklands Stadium, Brisbane Heat openers Nathan McSweeney and Jack Wood made a slow start, scoring 31-0 in the first four overs. However, they picked up the pace, with Matt Renshaw continuing the momentum after McSweeney’s dismissal in the eighth over.
With the score at 103-1 after 11 overs, Renegades captain Will Sutherland came in for his second spell. But Renshaw immediately put him under pressure, smashing three consecutive sixes over midwicket, square leg, and covers.
Suspension No. 1: Will Sutherland
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After the third six, the umpire summoned Sutherland, pointing to the protected area of the wicket—a region where bowlers are not allowed to step during their follow-through. As a result, Sutherland was removed from the attack, and Josh Brown completed the over.
Suspension No. 2: Fergus O’Neill
Just four overs later, the same incident happened again—this time with Fergus O’Neill. A stunned Sutherland covered his face in disbelief. He was also caught on the stump mic exclaiming, “It’s a T20 game!”—seemingly frustrated that such strict rules applied in a short-format match.
What Do the Laws Say?
According to the Big Bash League 2024/25 Playing Conditions, the protected area is defined under clause 41.11. It includes a rectangle extending 5 feet (1.52 meters) in front of the popping creases and 1 foot (30.48 cm) from the stumps’ center lines.
While Sutherland may have argued that these rules should not apply in T20 cricket, clause 41.13.1 states that a bowler cannot enter the protected area in his follow-through without a valid reason, even if the ball is delivered.
Penalties for Violating the Rule
- A bowler receives two warnings before being suspended from bowling.
- As per clause 41.13.4.1, the umpire must immediately suspend the bowler on the third violation.
- The over is completed by another bowler who did not bowl the previous or next over.
Though it’s unclear exactly when the first two warnings were given, TV commentator Mark Howard noted that Sutherland had already received a warning in the first over.
Match Outcome
Brisbane Heat posted a solid total of 196-4. At the time of writing, the Melbourne Renegades were 129-4 in 11.4 overs.
Stay updated for more on this unusual Big Bash League incident.
