Pakistan’s second ODI against New Zealand was bizarrely delayed today (Saturday, April 29) after the 30-yard circle was measured wrong.
Umpires Aleem Dar and Rashid Riaz realised the mistake one over into the innings and brought the markers in to the correct position with help from the Pakistan fielders.
Dar was seen explaining the issue to Pakistan captain Babar Azam, who seemed unimpressed by the incident.
“Well this is interesting, we’re changing the 30-yard circle,” said former New Zealand all-rounder Grant Elliott on commentary, “I’ve never seen this happen, who’s responsible?”
Urooj Mumtaz suggested “the wrong measuring tape” had been used to mark out the circle, and felt the umpires had been “quick to recognise and rectify” the error.
Play resumed shortly afterwards with the correct 30-yard circle in place.
Batting first, New Zealand have gotten off to a flyer in Rawalpindi and reached 137-2 after 22.5 overs.
It comes as they look to level the series after losing the first ODI by five wickets. The visitors drew their T20I series 2-2 earlier this month, as they recovered from a pair of punishing losses in the first two games to snatch two close wins.
Watch: New Zealand’s innings is delayed after the 30-yard circle is marked out wrong
— Out Of Context Cricket (@GemsOfCricket) April 29, 2023
