Sportsmanship storm erupts over Kiwis' bold DRS protest

A debatable DRS call by a third umpire has caused controversy in the second T20 between New Zealand and India at Eden Park.

The hosts won the toss and elected to bat but after losing openers Tim Seifert and Colin Munro it was up to captain Kane Williamson and Daryl Mitchell to build a decent total.

Unfortunately for the Black Caps, Mitchell was forced to go for one run after two balls – lbw to Krunal Pandya on the field and, in a divisive decision by third umpire Shaun Haig, after sending it upstairs.

Sky Sports commentators initially thought the dismissal was good but Mitchell’s reaction convinced Williamson it was worth another look – and it almost paid off.

Hot Spot showed a big mark on his bat’s edge and all the players and umpires got back into position expecting to have the decision overturned.

However, a look at Snicko – the official arbiter in lbw reviews, with Hotspot not considered foolproof – saw Haig leave the call as out.

“Woah, goodness me. That is absolutely ridiculous,” Simon Doull said in commentary.

“There’s a clear inside edge. This is a horrible mistake from Shaun Haig.”

The crowd booed as Williamson and Mitchell disputed, while the umpires incredibly began discussing it as well.

“We have not heard the last of this because the umpires have got together,” Ian Smith said.

“This shouldn’t happen. There should not be player pressure on this.

“I can understand Williamson’s point of view but the umpires now, having used technology, are being pressured and that’s not what it’s about.”

India got involved in the conversation as well but did not consider letting Mitchell remain at the crease, presumably to avoid undermining the umpires.

“I don’t agree with the decision but the outcome is correct,” Doull said.

“Daryl Mitchell must go. It’s a shame for him because he has got an inside edge on it. The system hasn’t worked in his favour but he does have to go for one.”

The debate continued, with a third commentator saying the system worked via Hot Spot showing an edge but the decision was wrong.

Smith wondered if bat had touched pad on the way through but further angles Hot Spot were inconclusive.

The review was the first time Mitchell, a 27-year-old playing just his second international match, had used DRS.

Cricket fans joined Smith in criticising New Zealand for their attempt to have India overturn the umpires: