'Absolutely ridiculous'- Farcical lunch decision mars South Africa, India ODI

Andrew Lucas

'Absolutely ridiculous'- Farcical lunch decision mars South Africa, India ODI image

India defeated South Africa by nine wickets in the second match of their one-day series, but the win was marred by a farcical decision from match officials.

MORE: Doug Bollinger announces retirementStanlake must pursue Test dream: Clark

With the tourists only requiring two runs for victory, umpires called for lunch to be taken, delaying the finish to the game by 40 minutes.

The game was always destined for an early finish after South Africa were bowled out for just 118 in the 33rd over at Centurion.

In a baffling decision, when players returned the stadium emptied and India knocked over the remaining two runs in three balls.

South African cricket commentator Mike Haysman was furious at the scenes at Supersport Park.

“No, I can’t believe this,” Haysman said.

“This is absolutely ridiculous

“This is where cricket has a real problem. Common sense has got to prevail. I am astonished by this.

“They cannot come off. It’s as simple as that. They’ve got to stay on. No, no, no, this doesn’t work.

“This is now a farce. It’s as simple as that. This is laughable, that’s what it is. You cannot do this.”

Cricket fans also took to Twitter to share their frustrations.


The third ODI will be played on Wednesday with India leading the six-match series two-nil.