South Africa v England: Annerie Dercksen dismissal was ‘right decision but wrong process’
From just the second ball of the match, Marissan Kapp and South Africa were convinced that their opener Tammy Beaumont LBW had a very convincing appeal, but it wasn’t given and England’s The opening combination went on to add 53 runs for the first wicket.
Proteas captain Laura Wolvaardt batted fluently and looked set to lead her side into a draw in the first innings before conceding lbw to Sophie Ecclestone on 65 Ecclestone).
Walwat was so angry as she left the field that she banged her bat against her helmet and muttered that she had hit the ball – a reaction that ultimately saw her fined by the International Cricket Council (ICC).
But the most controversial decision – albeit one with less impact on the final outcome – came in South Africa’s second innings when England called for a catch at Dirksen’s short leg and the on-field umpire The decision went on to be checked by a third referee, much like a commentator.
Even without DRS in play, referees can usually check with the third umpire for clean catches and bumps, which they may not be able to clearly see in real time – but in this case, the catch was made at chest height of.
Hartley told the BBC Test Match Special: “Ultimately the right decision was made because it did look like there was an advantage, but I just think it was the wrong process.”
“There was no doubt whether it was a clean catch. In fact, no one knew what the decision was.
“It shows that DRS needs to be in place for every international match and then we don’t talk about it. This should be a wake-up call for South African cricket.”
Proteas head coach Mandla Mashimbyi said the decision not to use DRS was above his “pay grade” but lamented the lack of communication over the “bizarre” decision which led to Dirk Sen’s wicket.
“There was no communication – I don’t understand why (it was cancelled),” Masimbi said.
“If it’s out, it’s out and if the umpire is unsure then the benefit of the doubt goes to the batsman. It’s strange and I guess the umpires thought they made the right call so we can’t argue with that.”
