Mankad Controversy
On the 13th December 1947, Australian batsman Bill Brown was run out at the non-striker’s end by Indian bowler Vinod Mankad.
Little did Brown realise that in the subsequent 77 years his dismissal would reverberate around the cricket world on and off courting controversy along the way - including most recently in the leafy suburbs of Dublin 6W.
Let’s rewind momentarily to 1947 when the Australian media, displeased with Vinoo Mankad’s actions, coined the term “Mankading” to describe this mode of dismissal. For decades, the dismissal largely lay dormant until it resurfaced dramatically during the 2019 IPL. England captain Jos Buttler was “mankaded,” sparking a flurry of opinions:
"The way in which it's managed I would disagree with. If I was captain of that team, I would say let’s give them a warning” - Lydia Greenway (126 WODIs for England) on the “Mankad”
"At the time, I was really disappointed with it. I didn't like the style of it" - Jos Buttler (England ODI captain and World Cup winner) after being “Mankaded” in the 2019 IPL.
"I do not agree with it because there is no skill involved in the dismissal. Batsmen should be given a warning" - Michael Vaughan (Ashes winning former England captain).
But before we delve into the drama of our own “Mankad” incident, let’s not forget there was an actual cricket match that took place!
The Match
Greystones went into bat and grumpily made their way to a total of 110. Garret skilfully rotated the bowlers, maximising the Walnut bowling endeavours. Jan bowled majestically well (taking two wickets in the process) while Gourang, Eddie and Gerry frustrated our generally unhappy opponents. Alex can also be proud of his endeavours as the Terenure man gave little away in his two over spell. Also, Jack yet again showcased his athleticism in the field and made some crucial boundary stops and a critical catch.
In reply the Walnuts chased down the Greystones total with an over to spare. Gerry and Gourang struck 20 while Man of the Match Jan shepherded the tail to victory hitting his own 20 in the process......but not before, yes, you’ve guessed it, a Mankad!
As the Walnut tree began to cast its long shadow, Greystones’ bowler Dillon did the unthinkable and “Mankaded” our own Eddie (who was merely a fraction outside his crease). A palpable sense of disbelief echoed throughout the hallowed grounds of Terenure College.
The St Mary's man was understandably irate and expressed an element of displeasure at the incident to his, by now, somewhat chastened opponent.
The Spirit of Cricket
I strongly believe the term "spirit of cricket" is overused, but the Mankad undoubtedly violates its principles and the broader spirit of sportsmanship. It's a universally condemned tactic at the highest level (as testified by Lydia Greenway, Jos Buttler and Michael Vaughan) and, in our more casual setting, let’s be honest, it’s downright underhanded.
Victory Secured
Cool heads prevailed as Eddie returned to the crease and a crucial unbeaten partnership ensued between Eddie and Jan that saw the Walnut Taverners sail to victory.
Some victories are celebrated more than others, and this was definitely one of those occasions.
Credit to the Greystones players who returned to the club post-match where both teams shared a beer and a laugh.
Sincere thanks as always to Philip for the immaculate pitch preparation and Jan for the very welcome pizza.
I am sure the late Bill Brown would have had a wry smile, as justice prevailed, and the Walnuts triumphed over a Mankad on this occasion. The Walnut tree has many a secret and can add a Mankad to its notable list. If only trees could talk, eh?!
Walnuts Win under the Tree.
Greystones @ Terenure College , August 9th 2024