Mr Cricket UAE

IPL 2026: 3 most controversial umpiring decisions

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Angkrish Raghuvanshi

Angkrish Raghuvanshi (Source: Getty Images)

Mr Cricket UAE Staff

Mr Cricket UAE Staff

Published - 19 May 2026, 06:08 AM Read time - 3 mins

The Indian Premier League 2026 (IPL 2026) has been a thrilling season so far, as the ongoing edition has witnessed several jaw-dropping moments. Record run chases, breathtaking catches, humongous sixes and fastest fifties, the season has had everything that a fan can ask for.

While there have been several moments to cherish, a few contentious incidents have also grabbed unwanted attention during the course of the tournament. As the IPL 2026 heads into its business end, here’s a look at the top three controversial umpiring decisions of the season so far:

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3. Angkrish Raghuvanshi obstructing the field decision

Angkrish Raghuvanshi was given out obstructing the field during Match 38 of the tournament against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at BRSABV Ekana Stadium in Lucknow. The decision was widely debated, with a section of fans questioning the legitimacy of the dismissal as Raghuvanshi was avoiding running on the restricted area of the pitch. Even the MCC had to release a statement to put an end to the debate, explaining that the umpires were within their right to rule him out.

 2. Jason Holder's controversial catch vs RCB

During Match 42 of the season between Gujarat Titans (GT) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Jason Holder took a controversial catch of Rajat Patidar. The GT all-rounder came running from deep square leg to complete a brilliant diving catch in the ninth over.

However, the RCB camp was displeased with the umpire for giving the decision in GT’s favour, alleging that Holder wasn’t in complete control of the ball as it brushed the ground. The decision led to a heated discussion between Virat Kohli and the fourth umpire on the boundary.  

1. Tristan Stubbs' glove change request denied, but Hardik allowed

During Match 18 between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Delhi Capitals (DC), Tristan Stubbs wasn’t allowed to change his gloves in the penultimate over of the DC's run chase innings due to pace-of-play regulations. Even his teammate Nitish Rana was fined for arguing with the fourth umpire near the boundary.

However, during Match 20 between RCB and Mumbai Indians (MI), Hardik Pandya was allowed to change his gloves during the 12th over of the second innings. The incident created a wild uproar on social media, with fans calling out the umpires for their double standards.

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