Schoolboy Error

Check out this video of Muttiah Muralitharan getting run out against New Zealand. The dozy twonk leaves his crease to congratulate Kumar Sangakarre on scoring a hundred whilst the ball is still live. Brendan McCullen was well within his rights and the umpire was correct to give him the finger. Captain Mahela Jaywardene protested the decision, saying the dismissal was not within the spirit of the game, but Stephen Fleming retorted saying that had the ball gone for overthrows then the Sri Lankans would have taken it. Personally I think Jayawardene’s protestations were not within the spirit of the game.

Two moments to watch out for:

1) The look on Sangakarra’s face as he realises what has happened, and realises his innings is over
2) Brendan McCullen giving Murali a smug little pat on the stomach as he runs past.

Classic. Let it be a lesson for anyone out there – while the ball is still live, stay in your crease!

(video found via The Corridor)