WATCH: Does Delhi seamer Navdeep Saini play off injury to avoid defeat against Tamil Nadu?

Ranji Trophya prestigious tournament that is often praised for its professional spirit, has been marred by an embarrassing incident involving Delhi fast bowler Navdeep Saini. In the game you are facing Tamil NaduSaini’s act to save his team from certain defeat, caused widespread outrage and calls for stiff penalties for his behavior.

The match, played at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi, was one-sided from the start. Tamil Nadu, led by Father Aparajiththey amassed a formidable total of 674/6 in their first innings, with Sai Sudharsan again Washington Sundar to get two points for years. Delhi, in reply, were bowled out for 266 runs. As the pitch continued to deteriorate, Tamil Nadu forced the follow-on, hoping for a quick victory. Delhi’s batting woes continued, and they were reduced to 161/6 before Saini came in to bat.

Navdeep Singh’s spectacular fall on the field

Facing a short pitched delivery, Saini ducked to avoid the ball, which hit his helmet and bounced back to the wicketkeeper. He showed the bowler that he was fine, but, in a shockingly dishonest manner, he fell spectacularly to the ground, clutching his head. A physio was called, and play was stopped.

Saini’s actions were met with disbelief and anger from cricket fans. They believed he made the mistake on purpose to buy time for his team, which was struggling to avoid defeat.

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Here is the video:

Inga enna award aaa kudukaraango!! Ipdi act panriye. Saini’s time-wasting tactics cost TN a straightforward innings victory. @JayShah bro, something needs to be done about this. We always seem to be at the receiving end. Lackadaisical umpiring too. Penalties should be given! #RanjiTrophy pic.twitter.com/nT4GOEG6qQ

— Srini Mama (@SriniMaama16) October 21, 2024

sign’The act calls for stiffer penalties

This incident has sparked debates about the need for stricter punishments for players who engage in this practice. Although the BCCI has taken steps to address the problem of misconduct in sports, there is a growing consensus that more needs to be done to prevent such incidents.

Saini’s blatant attempts to manipulate the opposition and the umpire have tarnished his reputation and raised questions about his performances.

Also READ: Prithvi Shaw reacts after being dropped from Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy squad due to disciplinary issues.