Absolutely criminal: Yastika Bhatia slammed after WBBL run-out mix-up
Yastika Bhatia found herself at the centre of criticism after a costly run-out mix-up with Charli Knott during Brisbane Heat’s Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) clash against Adelaide Strikers on Thursday, November 5. The Indian wicketkeeper-batter was accused of ball-watching after a communication breakdown brought Knott’s sensational innings to an unfortunate end.
The incident overshadowed an otherwise memorable outing for Knott, who smashed her maiden WBBL century to help Brisbane Heat post 184 for 4 in 20 overs at the Drummoyne Oval in Sydney. The Queenslander produced a stunning 104 off just 61 deliveries, striking 12 boundaries and four sixes to put the Heat in a commanding position.
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However, her innings ended in controversial circumstances in the 18th over. After Knott struck the ball towards the off side, there was an opportunity to turn a single into two runs. But while Knott looked to complete the second run, Bhatia appeared slow to respond and was not fully committed to running. The hesitation proved costly as the fielding side completed the run-out, bringing Knott’s outstanding knock to an unfortunate end.
One of the commentators did not hold back in his reaction, questioning Bhatia’s awareness and decision-making.
“Oh man, this is absolutely criminal from Brisbane Heat and Yastika Bhatia, who was ball-watching. We were watching it unfold live, and Charli Knott could have easily made two runs. As the ball flew over the off side, Bhatia was merely jogging towards the other end. But let’s take a moment to first celebrate what has been an absolute masterclass from Charli Knott,” the commentator said.
The mix-up came at a particularly frustrating moment for Brisbane, with Knott having just completed her maiden WBBL hundred. Bhatia, meanwhile, managed 16 off 18 deliveries, striking just one four at a strike rate of 88.88.
Knott, meanwhile, produced an innings to remember. She brought up her half-century off 37 deliveries before accelerating dramatically, taking just another 19 balls to reach the three-figure mark. Brisbane eventually secured a 14-run victory, ending their 706-day wait for a WBBL win.
YASTIKA’S STRUGGLES CONTINUE IN WBBL
The run-out controversy added to what has been a difficult start to the WBBL season for Bhatia. The Indian wicketkeeper-batter has struggled to make an impact with the bat in her opening appearances for Brisbane Heat.
Against Sydney Thunder on November 1, Bhatia managed just one run off three deliveries before being caught and bowled by Georgia Voll. Brisbane went on to lose that contest by six wickets despite posting 178 for 5.
Bhatia’s difficulties have also extended to international cricket. In the third ODI against Zimbabwe in Vadodara on October 28, she was dismissed for a golden duck, falling to Nomvelo Sibanda off the very first delivery she faced. India eventually won the match by eight wickets.
With the WBBL season still in its early stages, Bhatia will be keen to put the disappointing start behind her and make more substantial contributions for Brisbane Heat.
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