On-field umpire Rohan Pandit couldn't move out of the ball's way in time, as a fierce drive hit by Sanju Samson down the ground ricocheted off bowler Donovan Ferreira's hand straight onto his right knee. The incident resulted in Pandit falling down and screaming in pain, as he underwent a painful experience during the fifth T20I between India and South Africa at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad.
The incident happened on the fourth ball of the ninth over, as India were batting first in the final match of the series. After an eventful start to the over where Tilak Varma had gotten a couple of boundaries already, Samson tried to take the charge further onto Ferreira, hitting a full-length ball straight back towards the bowler. However, the bowler tried to grab hold of the ball, but failed, as the ball took a blow on Pandit's knee.
Soon, the Indian team's physio rushed to the ground and gave the on-field umpire some healing treatment. Samson and other players on the field also checked in if the umpire was okay. After a brief pause of play, Pandit was back on his feet, and the match resumed. However, it raised concerns regarding the safety of on-field umpires, as any physical blow can lead to serious injuries.
