Ashwin faces backlash over Mankad run-out

NEW DELHI: Spin legend Shane Warne led criticism of India’s Ravichandran Ashwin on Tuesday after a controversial run-out which put cricket’s unloved ‘Mankad’ dismissal in the spotlight.

Warne was among a number of leading figures to fault the Kings XI Punjab captain who, coming into bowl in the IPL, checked his run as Rajasthan Royals batsman Jos Buttler left his crease, and whipped off his bails.

The rarely used dismissal is within the laws of the game but critics say it is unsportsmanlike and not in the spirit of the deeply traditional sport. Warne, a member of the MCC World Cricket Committee, called for India’s cricket board the BCCI to take action against Ashwin, who was unrepentant about the incident after Punjab’s 14-run win.

"As captain of your side you set the standard... Why do such a disgraceful and low act like that tonight?" tweeted the Australian.

"You must live with yourself and FYI -- it’s too late to say sorry Mr Ashwin. You will be remembered for that low act." England limited-overs captain Eoin Morgan tweeted, "I can’t believe what I’m seeing!!" as comments about the incident flooded social media.

"Terrible example to set for young kids coming through. In time I think Ashwin will regret that," posted Morgan, adding that he was "so disappointed in (Ashwin) as a captain and as a person".

Buttler, who had scored 69, exchanged heated words with the Indian spinner before trudging off dejectedly. "No real argument to that," Ashwin told reporters later. "I didn’t even load and he left the crease. It’s always been my take on it, because it’s my half of the crease."