Suresh Raina and Billy Bowden Recreate Iconic 'Crooked Finger' Gesture From IND vs PAK Match

Former India cricketer Suresh Raina recently met one of the finest and undoubtedly the most entertaining umpire of his time, Billy Bowden. The former cricketer and ex-official caught up on the sidelines of Legends League Cricket 2024 and left a mark for the fans to cherish. The two recreated the famous crooked finger gesture from the India vs Pakistan bilateral series of 2012.

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Suresh Raina Meets Billy Bowden

Back in the day, Billy Bowden brought uniqueness to the same mundane cricketing gestures. He had his way of referring a decision to the third umpire and used to showcase a crooked finger when he deemed a batsman out. Suresh Raina once emulated the NZ umpire's suave during an India vs Pakistan match, that took place back in 2012. A decision was on check during Pakistan's innings and Bowden was in contact with the 3rd umpire when it was checked. The replays suggested that the decision was out and hence Bowden got the instructions about the course, and therefore he exhibited what he was famous for. However, little did he know that Suresh Raina was standing behind him, who anticipated Bowden's act in advance and adjusted well to showcase the finger in sync.

Years later, the two protagonists of the episode met and recreated the gesture. Billy Bowden posted about the meeting on Instagram and wrote a heartfelt caption for the former Indian cricketer, “Oh yes, Suresh Raina.What a cricketer, one of the nicest guys you will ever meet. It is a pleasure to be back in India umpiring, this Indian cricket legend.”

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Raina in action in LLC 2024

Suresh Raina is a featurette in the Legends League Cricket 2024. He is the skipper of the Toyam Hyderabad side. Raina played a quickfire 44 off 27 balls in the recent outing against Gujarat Greats. Along with Suresh Raina, many other foremost cricketers of the past generation are gracing the field in the league.