In a recent video shared on Instagram by former Indian cricketer Munaf Patel, a shocking incident from 2007 has left fans and cricket lovers in disbelief. The video captures the moment when legendary Indian cricketers Sachin Tendulkar and MS Dhoni were taken aback by the honesty or lack thereof displayed by South African batsman AB de Villiers.
During a match between India and South Africa, the Indian fast bowlers wreaked havoc by dismissing opener Morne van Wyk and captain Jacques Kallis within the first four overs. As the game progressed, a crucial moment came in the fifth over. Zaheer Khan bowled a back-of-a-length ball outside off-stump, which took the ball away from de Villiers. The ball touched the outside edge of de Villiers’ bat and fell safely into the hands of first slip fielder Sachin Tendulkar.
The Indian fielders broke into celebration, confident that they had got a crucial wicket. However, to his surprise, de Villiers refused to walk and continued to wait for the umpire’s decision. Umpire Aleem Dar, oblivious to the tip or deflection of the ball, declared de Villiers not out, much to the dismay of the Indian team, which had already begun their celebrations.
While it was clear to everyone, including de Villiers himself, that he had edged the ball, he chose not to follow the spirit of the game. His refusal to walk left the Indian team scratching their heads in disbelief at Dar’s decision. Despite this controversial incident, de Villiers failed to capitalize on the opportunity and was eventually caught by MS Dhoni off Sourav Ganguly after contributing only 15 runs.
The video, which is originally from 2007, has attracted renewed attention after Munaf Patel shared it on Instagram. Patel’s caption, “Why didn’t the umpire give this out or why is the batsman not going?? What public out or not out?” Translated as “Why didn’t the umpire give it out, and why isn’t the batsman walking? What do the public say, out or not out?”
The video has sparked widespread discussion among cricket fans and has again highlighted the importance of sportsmanship and honesty in the game. It serves as a reminder that even the most respected and talented players can be subject to moments of questionable behavior.