Cricket is no stranger to bizarre dismissals, from timed outs to controversial non-striker run-outs, but the latest incident in the England U19 vs. South Africa U19 Test match might just be the strangest dismissal of 2025 so far.
During the first unofficial Test, England U19 batter Aaryan Sawant found himself on the receiving end of a freak run-out that left both players and fans stunned.
A Freakish Dismissal
The moment unfolded when Sawant attempted a sweep shot off a delivery from South African bowler Jason Rowles. Instead of sailing past the fielders, the ball struck short-leg fielder Jorich van Schalkwyk directly on the knee and ricocheted back onto the stumps. Sawant, who had slightly stepped out of his crease, was left helpless as the bails were dislodged.
Initially, many believed the ball had hit Schalkwyk’s helmet, which would have resulted in a dead ball. However, slow-motion replays confirmed that the ball had struck his knee instead, making the dismissal valid.
Schalkwyk, who appeared to be in visible pain after the incident, became an unintentional part of what many are calling the most unfortunate run-out of the year.
Fans React in Shock
The rare dismissal quickly went viral, drawing a mix of amazement, disbelief, and sympathy from cricket fans worldwide.
- “That has to be the most unlucky dismissal I’ve ever seen!”
- “Surely that’s a dead ball?”
- “The batsman will be salty (rightfully so), but what a story for the future!”
- “Cricket is one dangerous sport!”
England in Command Despite the Bizarre Dismissal
Despite losing Sawant in such an unusual manner, England U19 ended Day 3 with a lead of 255 runs over South Africa U19.
Match Summary:
- England 1st Innings: 299 all out
- South Africa 1st Innings: 319 all out
- England 2nd Innings (End of Day 3): 275/8
While England remains in a strong position, this bizarre run-out will undoubtedly be one of the most talked-about moments of the match—if not the entire year!
