During the 2023 edition of The Hundred competition, England’s captain for white-ball cricket, Jos Buttler, has showcased impressive form while representing the Manchester Originals. As the top scorer in the tournament, he has accumulated 142 runs from three matches.
However, in a rather peculiar incident during the Originals’ match against the Birmingham Phoenix on Monday, Buttler’s innings came to an unusual end. Having batted his way to a swift 43 off 33 balls, the skipper of Manchester found himself run out at the non-striker’s end in an unconventional manner.
During a rapid attempt to steal a single on the 67th delivery, the wicketkeeper of the Rajasthan Royals lunged forward in a desperate dive. Tragically for Buttler, his bat lifted off the ground just inches away from the crease, allowing Moeen Ali’s direct throw to dislodge the stumps.
The decision by the TV umpire rendered Buttler out, leaving the explosive opening batsman visibly disappointed. According to MCC law 38.1, the rule is clear: “Either batter is out Run out if, at any time while the ball is in play, he is out of his ground and his wicket is fairly broken by the action of a fielder.”
The controversial decision of Jos Buttler given run out.
— M (@anngrypakiistan) August 7, 2023
Out or not out?
pic.twitter.com/vLSLXpITE9
Regarding the match itself, Buttler’s rapid 43 contributed significantly to the Originals’ total score of 160 runs. Usama Mir also played a notable role with an unbeaten 32. In response, the Phoenix managed to score only 111 runs, as a combined effort from Richard Gleeson, Joshua Little, Usama Mir, and Tom Hartley resulted in the collection of nine wickets.
This collective performance secured a commanding 49-run victory for Manchester. This triumph propelled the Originals to second place in the points table. Their upcoming fixture on Wednesday will see them facing the Oval Invincibles.