In the 2025 IPL clash between Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), a moment involving Jitesh Sharma has sparked widespread discussion. While Sharma was backing up too far as he stood at the non-striker's end before the ball was delivered, which raised eyebrows among fans and experts. Many felt that Sharma should have been run out by being Mankaded, but it did not lead to confusion with the ruling. 

According to Law 41.16 of the MCC Laws of Cricket, a bowler may only attempt to run out a non-striker at the non-striker's end if the non-striker had abandoned his crease before the bowler completed his delivery stride. Although Sharma abandoned the crease early, the bowler had already entered the delivery stride and was releasing the ball. The non-striker was no longer entitled to run out, meaning it would not have been legal to perform a Mankading dismissal in regard to the delivery.

The umpires applied the relevant laws appropriately in this instance. Jitesh may have left the crease early, but since the bowler's attempt was after the league delivery stride, the appeal subsequently failed. In the end, this is a timely reminder about the precise nature of cricket's laws and a little something to reinforce why Mankading is one of the most contested dismissals in the game.

The Match Outcome and Aftermath

RCB won the match by 6 wickets, chasing down LSG’s total of 227/3. LSG’s innings was powered by a blistering knock from Jitesh Sharma, who smashed 85 runs off just 33 balls, lighting up the stadium with boundaries. However, RCB responded strongly, reaching 230/4 in 18.4 overs.

Also Read: WATCH: Rishabh Pant's acrobatic celebration after brilliant century in LSG vs RCB game in IPL 2025

Although the Mankading did not influence the result, it did instigate some discussions in cricket circles. What it does reflect is the need for bowlers to understand the timing rules should they wish to execute a non-striker run-out within the laws of the game.