Cricket fraternity have slammed West Indies Under-19s following their controversial Mankad style run-out victory over Zimbabwe that helped them to book their place in the World Cup quarter-finals.
The sensational dismissal took place in the last over when Zimbabwe needed three runs with a wicket remaining. Seamer Keemo Paul removed the bails at the bowler's end with the batsman Richard Ngarava a fraction out of his ground, News.com.au reported.
The dismissal was condemned by cricketing greats, who insisted on changing the rules of the sport.
England One-Day skipper Eoin Morgan lashed out at the Caribbeans and twitted, "Disgraceful behaviour in the U19CWC. WI's should be embarrassed!!."
Australian coach Darren Lehmann described the decision as 'unbelievable' and insisted that Zimbabwe batsman was not out.
Former Australian cricketer Tom Moody also expressed his disappointment over the issue. He wrote on twitter, "Saddened to see that winning comes down to this! #WIvZIM #U19CWC."
The term 'Mankad' was coined after Indian bowler Vinoo Mankad created history by dismissing Australian batsman Bill Brown in a similar manner at the SCG in 1947.
Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, however, backed the dismissal and said that Paul should be considered as a 'hero' for helping his side to win the match.
"1ball 6 to win, batsmen is a hero. Bowler with the presence of mind to do it and win a game for his team. Make him a hero I say," Ashwin tweeted.
"Whether playing U19 cricket or a World Cup final, if outside the crease, intentional or otherwise, you are out. Have to know the rules," commentator Harsha Bhogle commented on the controversial dismissal.
Admitting that the run-out was technically legal, Zimbabwe skipper Brandon Mavuta said that he was disappointed with the way the game ended, but added that he was quite happy with the way his side fought in the match.
With the dismissal, Zimbabwe were bundled out all out for 224 with six balls remaining, suffering two-run defeat at the hands of West Indies.
