MCC Rules Akash Deep's Controversial Root Dismissal as Legal

The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), the ultimate authority on cricket laws, has weighed in on the controversy surrounding Akash Deep's delivery that dismissed Joe Root in the recent Edgbaston Test. Despite the debate, the MCC has officially stated that the delivery was, in fact, legal.

Joe Root got bowled by a peach of a delivery from Akash Deep © Getty

The point of contention arose when replays showed Akash Deep's back foot appearing to land outside the return crease during the delivery of the tenth over. This led to speculation among some media outlets and commentators that it should have been called a no-ball.

The MCC's Interpretation

The MCC emphasizes that the legality hinges on the initial point of contact between the bowler's foot and the ground. According to their interpretation, Law 21.5.1 states that:

"For a delivery to be fair in respect of the feet, in the delivery stride the bowler's back foot must land within and not touching the return crease appertaining to his/her stated mode of delivery."

The MCC spokesperson clarified, "MCC has always defined the moment that the back foot lands as the first point of contact with the ground. As soon as there is any part of the foot touching the ground, that foot has landed, and it is the foot's position at that time which is to be considered for a back foot no ball."

Therefore, even if part of the foot subsequently lands outside the line, the delivery is deemed legal if the initial contact is within the crease.

Dissenting Opinions

Despite the MCC's clarification, opinions were divided at the time of the incident. Some commentators believed it was a no-ball, including former England batter Jonathan Trott. However, Ravi Shastri was adamant that the delivery was legitimate. The third umpire, Paul Reiffel, did not intervene, further supporting the legality of the delivery.

Impact on the Test Match

Root's dismissal was a crucial moment in the match, leaving England at 50 for 3 while chasing a daunting target of 608. India capitalized on this breakthrough and ultimately secured a commanding 336-run victory, leveling the five-Test series. The dismissal continues to be a talking point, but the MCC's statement provides clarity and closure to the debate.