India's Harleen Deol draws flak for involving in bizarre run out against England

Dubai: Indian cricketer Harleen Deol came under heavy criticism following a bizarre run-out during the first Women's ODI against England at the Rose Bowl in Southampton on Wednesday.

Chasing a target of 259, India were 48 for one in eight overs when Harleen, batting at No. 3, walked in after Smriti Mandhana’s dismissal.

In the fourth ball of the 22nd over, Harleen tapped a delivery from Charlie Dean and set off for a quick single. Though she appeared to have comfortably made her ground at the non-striker's end, a direct hit from Alice Davidson-Richards prompted an appeal, leading the on-field umpire to refer it to the third umpire.

The replay, however, revealed a bizarre moment: Harleen had almost completed the run but instead of grounding her bat, she attempted to jump into the crease. While airborne, the direct hit dislodged the bails, and since neither her bat nor her feet were in contact with the ground at that moment, she was ruled run out.

Harleen departed after scoring 27 off 44 balls, including four boundaries, leaving India at 102 for three. Despite the setback, India went on to win the match by four wickets.

Fans, however, were unimpressed with the dismissal and criticized Harleen for what many called a "brainfade" moment.

“Harleen Deol is lucky Sunil Gavaskar does not commentate on women's cricket. Unexcusable stuff for a gully cricketer that. Let alone international cricket,” one fan posted online.

Another added, “Absolutely embarrassing running between the wickets from Harleen Deol.”