Big Bash League: Adelaide Strikers avert James Pattinson run out controversy after questionable decision by TV umpire

A glaring umpiring error by the TV official in the opening game of the Big Bash League’s (BBL) eighth season between Adelaide Strikers and Brisbane Heat grabbed headlines, but a major controversy was averted when fielding side, Strikers, withdrew their appeal. The incident occurred during Heat’s innings against a ‘run out’ appeal against new signing James Pattinson. Pattinson’s batting partner Jimmy Peirson tapped one towards point for a quick single. Pattinson dived at the striker’s end and looked to have secured his ground. However, the verdict of ‘out’ on the Gabba big screen confused everybody, including the on-field umpires Simon Fry and Paul Wilson. The decision also prompted Heat captain Chris Lynn and coach Daniel Vettori speaking to the match official outside the playing area. After much perplexity, Pattinson started to walk towards the dugout, only to return as the Strikers’ captain Colin Ingram, on bowler Ben Laughlin’s suggestion, withdrew their appeal.

James Pattinson and Ben Laughlin speak after this controversial moment in the #BBL last night pic.twitter.com/ddJO6OZbO4

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 19, 2018

“I’m not sure why it was given out, but I think the common-sense rule needed to come in, and we finally got there in the end,” Laughlin told cricket.com.au after the Strikers’ five-wicket victory. Brisbane set the Adelaide 147 runs to win, which the Strikers went on to claim in the final over.