The Big Bash League was rocked by a major controversy after Sydney Sixers’ captain Moises Henriques took a seemingly stunning catch to dismiss Melbourne Stars’ opener Tom Rogers, only to injure his shoulder. The incident occurred when the Stars were 0/28 in the fifth over, chasing 155 for their first win of the season. Rogers tried to loft a shot, but Henriques claimed a spectacular one-handed catch.
A third umpire check initially seemed set to disallow the catch after Henriques’ apparent contact with the ground, similar to a controversial incident in the second Ashes Test earlier in the year. However, much to everyone’s surprise, the third umpire, Claire Polosak, upheld the dismissal and sent Rogers off for 20.
The decision caused a stir on social media, with many slamming Polosak for her “embarrassing oversight.” However, others, including former Australian Test player Trent Copeland, called for a change in the rules to make Henriques’ catch legal. Polosak later explained her decision, citing the existence of a “soft signal” in domestic cricket and a lack of conclusive evidence to overturn the on-field call of out.
The controversy did not deter the Stars from securing their maiden win of the BBL season. Following Rogers’ dismissal, a minor collapse saw the Stars struggle, but a pair of final-over boundaries from Hilton Cartwright carried them to victory. Pakistani spinner Usama Mir made significant contributions, taking 3-19 off four overs early in the innings.
Despite the controversy, the Stars emerged triumphant, thanks to their resilient performance, although the decision to dismiss Rogers led to much debate and divided opinions.