Heinrich Klaasen was controversially given out during the IPL 2026 opener between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on Saturday (March 28).
Klaasen attempted to heave a delivery from Romario Shepherd toward the leg-side in the 13th over of SRH’s innings, but was caught by Phil Salt near the boundary rope.
The dismissal sparked debate as Salt appeared to roll or tread near the boundary cushion to maintain balance. Since the broadcasting angles were inconclusive, commentators such as Sunil Gavaskar and Danny Morrison also questioned whether the boundary cushion had moved.
Upon review, third umpire Rohan Pandit adjudged it a fair catch, and an unhappy Klaasen was forced to depart for 31 off 22 balls.
Heinrich Klaasen’s dismissal also stirred significant debate on social media regarding whether the boundary cushion was touched when Phil Salt completed the grab.
Here are the reactions:
