Why was Phoebe Litchfield given not-out in India vs Australia Women's T20 World Cup match?

In a thrilling encounter between India and Australia in the Women's T20 World Cup 2024, a contentious LBW decision sparked debate and highlighted the significance of technology in cricket. Australian batter Phoebe Litchfield found herself at the center of the drama, as a review turned the tables on an initial out decision.

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Here's why Phoebe Litchfield was given not out 

The incident unfolded in the 16th over, with Deepti Sharma's delivery striking Phoebe Litchfield's front pad, prompting umpire Sue Redfern to raise her finger. However, Litchfield opted to review the decision, and the third umpire's analysis revealed an intriguing twist. 

According to the ball tracking technology, the ball was shown to be missing the stumps, leading the third umpire to overturn the on-field decision. Litchfield was deemed not out, and the Australian camp breathed a collective sigh of relief.

Indian vice-captain Smriti Mandhana swiftly approached umpire Sue Redfern to contest the not-out decision. Mandhana astutely pointed out that Phoebe Litchfield had altered her stance while attempting the reverse sweep, which could impact the LBW decision. 

According to the laws of cricket, specifically law 36.1.2, a batter is only considered leg before if the ball pitches in line between the wickets or on the off side of the striker's wicket. Crucially, the definition of off and on sides remains unchanged even if the batter adjusts their stance to play a reverse sweep or switch hit. 

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The reprieve granted to Phoebe Litchfield proved to be a timely lifeline for Australia Women, who were struggling at 139/6 after 19 overs. With their backs against the wall, Litchfield and Annabel Sutherland mounted a crucial counterattack. Australia eventually managed to cross the 150-run mark and finished at 151/8 in 20 overs.