IPL 2021: KL Rahul Asks For Change In Rules For ‘Wet Ball’ After PBKS’ Loss Against DC

Punjab Kings (PBKS) captain KL Rahul batted for an important change in rules regarding the ‘wet ball’ after his team suffered a bitter loss in their high-scoring IPL 2021 encounter against Delhi Capitals (DC) in Mumbai this Sunday (April 18).

PBKS made 195/4 in 20 overs batting first but it proved to be an under par score on a flat pitch at the Wankhede Stadium when DC achieved the 196-run target with more than an over to spare and another six wickets intact.

A ground situated near the sea, the dew plays a role in Mumbai and it made it extremely difficult for PBKS bowlers to grip the ball and execute their plans against DC batters. Especially once in-form left-hand opener Shikhar Dhawan got going for his 92 off just 49 deliveries.

PBKS lost to DC after failing to defend their total of 195/4.

KL Rahul Asks For Change In Rules For ‘Wet Ball’ After PBKS’ Loss Against DC

At the post-match presentation ceremony on Star Sports following PBKS’ disappointing loss, Rahul said his team did come prepared to counter the dew factor but it was still very difficult for them to manage around it.

“When we come to Wankhede, bowling second is always a challenge. We prepare for such conditions. It does get difficult against these quality batters,” said Rahul.

When asked by commentator Simon Doull whether bowling teams should be allowed a change in ball if they find it too wet to handle in the second half, Rahul in response made it a point to suggest that the rule change on ‘wet ball’ should indeed be in store. Rahul added that bowling second in such conditions is often a “massive disadvantage”.

“I think so, I think it will be only fair. I’m not saying that because I’m on the losing side,” he said. “I think that’s only fair that team bowling second such a huge disadvantage. Our (PBKS) bowlers try and practice their skills with the wet ball but again when you go in the middle with the pressure, it’s always difficult.”

“I did ask the umpires to change the ball a couple of times. But it’s not in the rules book, so that’s how the game goes, we have to take it,” Rahul concluded.

With another chastening defeat, PBKS fell to the seventh position in the IPL 2021 points table with a solitary win from their three outings.

Punjab Kings (PBKS) will next play Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Wednesday (April 21) in Chennai.