Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi
Brahmavara, Jan 28: One of Karnataka’s most prestigious tennis-ball cricket tournaments, held at Gandhi Maidan, Brahmavara, was abruptly called off following a dispute over an umpiring decision, leaving players, organisers and cricket fans deeply disappointed.
The incident occurred on January 27, late at night between 10.30 pm and 11 pm, when a close LBW appeal on the final ball of an over was ruled ‘not out’ by the umpire. As the decision proved crucial for qualification to the next round, it triggered a heated argument on the field.
The situation soon escalated, prompting police officials to intervene and restore order. According to Brahmavara police, the organisers had not obtained permission to use loudspeakers beyond 10 pm. As the match had crossed the permitted time, authorities directed that it be continued the following day. However, due to prior bookings at the venue, the tournament could not be resumed.
Subsequently, the police instructed the organisers to distribute the prize money among the four semifinalist teams, bringing the tournament to an abrupt end.
Cricket enthusiasts and local sports lovers expressed disappointment, pointing out that months of effort by the organisers were undone within minutes due to a disagreement. Many emphasised that respecting umpires’ decisions is a fundamental aspect of sportsmanship.
Fans urged players and team owners to accept umpiring decisions and uphold the spirit of the game, noting that tournaments which take nearly a year to organise can be destroyed in minutes by irresponsible behaviour. Some spectators also alleged that cases were registered involving fans and their vehicles, adding to the distress.
Drawing comparisons with legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar’s calm responses to controversial decisions in international cricket, fans said true sportsmanship lies in accepting both victory and defeat with dignity.
Shakeel Hassan, organiser of the HMC United Trophy 2026, said the tournament was stopped as permission to use loudspeakers after 10 pm was not available. “The match got delayed, and since the teams included players from outside the district, it was not possible to continue on subsequent days. We had worked for three to four months to organise this event, and it is very sad that it had to be called off,” he said.
Explaining the dispute, he said the incident occurred during the fourth quarter-final between Johnson Team and Panchajanya Team. “On the last ball, one run was required. Johnson Team sought an LBW review, but the umpire declared it not out, and the third umpire upheld the decision. Following this, Johnson Team players and supporters entered the pitch. Considering the situation, SI Ashok Malabagi called off the tournament. We tried to convince the teams, but they did not respond,” he said.
Hassan said the cash prize would be shared among the four teams — Izaan Chaitanya, Panchajanya, Jai Karnataka Bengaluru and Friends Bengaluru — with each receiving Rs 25 lac. The trophy, he said, would be decided by a toss on February 2 at the Udupi district press club. “This match was for unity and had no religious angle. Despite comments on social media, umpire decisions were correct. We thank the police for managing the crowd and all visitors for their cooperation,” he added.
Clarifying complaints related to parked vehicles, Hassan said cases were registered against two to three vehicles that were parked on the Barkur–Shivamogga national highway.
Despite the unfortunate ending, many noted that the incident serves as a reminder that cricket is not only about winning but also about discipline, respect and unity, and that the true spirit of the game must always be upheld.