Drama in Hyderabad: SRH to complain to BCCI after match flashpoint

Sunrisers Hyderabad are reportedly preparing to approach the Board of Control for Cricket in India following a series of contentious decisions in the ongoing Indian Premier League 2026, with the latest flashpoint coming during their match against Lucknow Super Giants.

The controversy centres on an incident involving Avesh Khan during the final moments of the game in Hyderabad. Chasing 157, LSG sealed a five-wicket victory when Rishabh Pant struck a boundary off Jaydev Unadkat with one ball remaining. However, immediately after the shot, Avesh Khan, standing near the dugout, hit the ball back into the field of play with his bat.

Questions quickly emerged over whether the ball had actually crossed the boundary rope before being touched. According to discussions around the laws of the game, particularly those related to dead ball and unfair play, some observers argued that Sunrisers Hyderabad should have been awarded five penalty runs. The debate intensified on social media, where fans scrutinised the footage and called for stricter application of the rules.

Despite the uproar, match officials did not consider the act to be a deliberate attempt to interfere with play. Since there were no fielders in proximity attempting to stop the boundary, the incident was not classified as unfair play under the laws. As a result, the outcome of the match stood, and no penalties were imposed.

The Avesh Khan moment is not an isolated concern for SRH this season. Reports indicate that the franchise is also dissatisfied with earlier decisions, including the dismissal of Heinrich Klaasen in the opening match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, where he was caught by Phil Salt. Additionally, the team has raised questions over the dismissal of Abhishek Sharma in their match against Kolkata Knight Riders, where concerns were flagged about a catch taken off Blessing Muzarabani.

While none of these decisions are expected to be overturned, SRH’s move to formally raise the issue with the BCCI signals growing frustration within the camp over consistency in umpiring standards. The franchise is likely to seek greater clarity on rule interpretations and improved decision-making processes to avoid similar controversies in future matches.

So far in IPL 2026, Sunrisers Hyderabad have had a mixed run, with one win and two losses. They suffered defeats against Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Lucknow Super Giants but secured a victory over Kolkata Knight Riders. The team will next face Punjab Kings as they look to regain momentum in the tournament.