Fri Nov 08 09:25:16 UTC 2024: ## Controversial Catch Decision Sparks Outrage in Ranji Trophy
**Mumbai, India -** A controversial catch decision in the Ranji Trophy match between Maharashtra and Services has sparked outrage, with India A captain Ruturaj Gaikwad slamming the umpires and the opposition for the dubious call.
The incident occurred during Maharashtra’s innings, as stand-in captain Ankit Bawane was given out caught off a delivery from left-arm spinner Amit Kumar. Replays clearly showed the ball bouncing off the ground before reaching the fielder, leaving commentators and viewers perplexed.
Gaikwad, who is currently leading India A in Australia, took to Instagram to express his displeasure, calling the decision “pathetic” and questioning the legitimacy of the appeal.
“How can this be given out in a live game? Shame to even appeal for a catch. Absolutely pathetic,” Gaikwad wrote on his story.
The decision ultimately proved costly for Maharashtra, who lost Bawane’s valuable knock and were eventually bowled out for 183, conceding a 110-run first-innings lead to Services.
This incident comes at a time when Gaikwad himself has been under the spotlight for his recent form and selection snub. He was not included in the India Test squad for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy, a decision that has been met with criticism from some quarters, including Maharashtra teammate Azim Kazi.
Kazi expressed his displeasure on X, suggesting that the BCCI had deliberately kept Gaikwad busy with domestic tournaments only to exclude him at the last minute.
Gaikwad’s poor performance in the ongoing India A tour of Australia has only added fuel to the fire. With his India aspirations seemingly on hold, the controversial catch decision in the Ranji Trophy is sure to further fuel the debate surrounding his selection and future prospects.
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