Inzamam’s Perplexing Dismissal: “I Can’t Understand the Rule”
Inzamam-ul-Haq’s infamous dismissal for obstructing the field during Pakistan’s 2006 tour of India has become a legendary anecdote in cricket folklore. The incident occurred in the first ODI of the series in Peshawar, where Inzamam was given out after stopping a throw with his bat while out of his crease.
The dismissal stirred controversy, but it was Inzamam’s response at the post-match presentation ceremony that truly captured the attention of cricket fans. With a perplexed expression, he famously stated, “I left the ball and I am out and now stop the ball I am out. I can’t understand the rule.”
Inzamam’s dismissal was not an isolated incident. A few months prior, he was involved in a similar incident during a Test match against England in Faisalabad. However, that time he was declared run-out after lifting his back foot to avoid being hit by a throw while inside his crease.
The former Pakistan captain’s unique style of batting, characterized by sluggish running between the wickets, often led to him or his partners being run out. Inzamam’s dismissal for obstructing the field was the third such instance in ODI cricket at the time, with five more similar dismissals occurring since then.
Despite his occasional mishaps on the field, Inzamam remains one of Pakistan’s greatest batsmen. He played in 120 Tests, scoring 8,830 runs, and 378 ODIs, amassing 11,739 runs. His international career spanned over two decades, and he played a pivotal role in Pakistan’s 1992 World Cup victory.
Inzamam’s legacy extends beyond his batting prowess. His witty remarks and humorous demeanor have made him a beloved figure in the cricket world. His dismissal for obstructing the field, while a technical violation, has become a testament to his unique approach to the game and his ability to provide entertainment both on and off the field.