ODI World Cup 2023

Tom Latham’s brain fade denies wicket to New Zealand against Netherlands during ODI World Cup 2023

Tom Latham and his side won their second game on Monday by beating the Netherlands. The margin of win was a huge 99 runs as the Kiwis stamped their authority all over their opposition. The match played in Hyderabad was a one-sided affair thanks to Mitchell Santner who picked 5/59.

It was during the Dutch batting innings the fans witnessed a rare no-ball decision being given. Tom Latham’s excitement cost his team a wicket as there was a huge debate in the commentary box.

New Zealand was asked to bat after Scott Edwards won the toss for his side. Kane Williamson still wasn’t match-fit so he missed out from the playing XI. James Neesham made way for Lockie Ferguson as the only change made by Tom Latham.

New Zealand skipper jumps the gun 

Rachin Ravindra was bowling the last ball of the 41^st over to Sybrand Engelbrecht. The left-arm-spinner bowled a wide delivery as the batter stepped out of his crease in a bid to hit it. Tom Latham collected the ball and whipped off the bails but here is where the drama unfolded.

The two on-field umpires asked the batter to wait and sent it up to the TV umpire. it was seen that Tom Latham had collected the ball in front of the stumps to effect the dismissal. The decision was overturned and the batter was asked to come back and resume his innings.

It was then deemed that the decision would be a no-ball and this did not sit down well with Ian Smith.  The former Kiwi stumper said on air that it was the most bizarre episode he has ever witnessed on the field of play.

Will Young (70) and Rachin Ravindra (51) helped New Zealand get a flying start after they were asked to bat. Tom Latham then scored a quick half-century along with contributions from Daryl Mitchell and Mitchell Santner.

Chasing 323 to win, the Netherlands team saw Colin Ackermann lead the batting charts with 69. Mitchell Santner picked his second five-wicket haul in ODI cricket to finish with 5/59 from his 10 overs. The Kiwis now are sitting pretty at the top of the table and take on Bangladesh next in Chennai.