Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Sport

You are the Umpire: Brendon McCullum

Click to enlarge, and debate the strip below the line.

John Holder's verdict

1) The issue here is one of protecting the Spirit of Cricket. Is winning really so important to the fielding side that they're willing to contravene that spirit to get a result? The bowling of wides is not against the laws but in this context it clearly seems unfair. I would allow the game to continue beyond the stated finishing time, as long as the batting side and my colleague were happy to do so. I have seen batsmen carry on batting in poor light when it has suited them, and, in this case, I am certain that they would happily continue with the prospect of winning. John Clegg wins the shirt.

2) Out. There's no attempt at foul play here – the ball has struck the fielder and bounced to another without touching the ground. The fielder might very well have sunglasses for medical reasons, even though at that instant he was not wearing them over his eyes. It'd be no different if he was wearing spectacles. Thanks to Ian McGowan.

3) The fielding captain has absolutely no right or authority to complain about what an incoming batsman was doing before going to the crease. How would he feel if his bowlers weren't allowed to warm up beforehand by bowling a few balls to the wicketkeeper, coach or another fielder? What a nonsense. Play on. Thanks to Peter Newell.

Competition: win a T-shirt of your choice

Cricket shirt

For a chance to win a sporting T-shirt of your choice from the Guardian range send us your questions for You are the Umpire to you.are.the.umpire@observer.co.uk. The best scenario used in each new strip wins a T-shirt; Terms apply. For more on You are the Ref's history, click here.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.