Steve Smith run out: R Ashwin gives his verdict on controversial call by Nitin Menon | Ashes 2023

Australian maestro Steve Smith's almost run-out on Day 2 of the final Ashes Test has become a point of contention in the cricket world.

In the evening session, Smith while taking a second run, had to dive to reach the crease but it seemed he fell short when Bairstow dislodged the bail from the grooves.

Smith was on his way back to the pavillion when after several minutes of careful study, third umpire Nitin Menon reversed the decision.

According to replays of the moment, Bairstow had knocked off one of the bails with his arm rather than the ball and after that, Smith was already within the crease line.

Joining the discussion over Smith's close call, Indian veteran R Ashwin lauded Menon for his decision in a tweet saying, 'What’s with the Ashes and substitute fielders. Have to applaud Nitin Menon for making the right decision.'

The spinner's tweet also referenced the 2005 Ashes when Australia's Ricky Ponting was run out by substitute fielder Gary Pratt.

English substitute George Ealham was denied his own 'Pratt' moment on Wednesday when the third umpire declared the run-out void.

MCC rules state that, 'The wicket is broken when at least one bail is completely removed from the top of the stumps, or one or more stumps is removed from the ground.'

Following widespread discussion over the matter, the MCC also posted a clarification with the run-out video on their Twitter handle.

What’s with the Ashes and substitute fielders. #ashes2023 #ashes2005 #garypratt #georgeeahlam

Have to applaud Nitin Menon for making the right decision 👏👏

— Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) July 28, 2023

We have received a few questions regarding the decision in the below video.

Law 29.1 states: "The wicket is broken when at least one bail is completely removed from the top of the stumps, or one or more stumps is removed from the ground." (1/2)#Ashes pic.twitter.com/RyZMgf5ItF

— Marylebone Cricket Club (@MCCOfficial) July 28, 2023