'Need better angles before judging' - Fans react as Phil Salt takes catch at boundary line to dismiss Heinrich Klaasen in IPL 2026

In the first match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) produced a stunning show to beat Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by six wickets. It was a stellar performance on the field by the entire team, finishing the run chase in just 15.4 overs. However, the controversy around Phil Salt's catch remains the highlight of the game.

Salt, who was everywhere on the field, claimed a catch near the boundary ropes. The catch gained attention on social media as well, since there was no conclusive evidence whether the catch was clean or not. The internet was divided within minutes as the opinions differed from each other.

Phil Salt’s stunning boundary effort removes Heinrich Klaasen

In the 13.1 over, Heinrich Klaasen, looking all set, tried to hit the back-of-the-length delivery, but the ball travelled towards the deep mid-wicket, and Salt took the catch near the boundary ropes. He was near the boundary, and hence, the on-field umpires went upstairs to check whether the catch was clean or not.

The umpires took a few minutes and looked through different angles, and gave the decision in favour of RCB. However, Klaasen was not satisfied with the decision and stood near the boundary line, talking to the umpire. There were no clear angles which showed the fielder touching the boundary ropes. Moreover, the ropes didn't move, and that might have been the reason behind the umpires' decision.

Watch the video here:

Fans react to controversial moment in IPL 2026 match

Fans had mixed reactions to Phil Salt’s stunning boundary effort to dismiss Heinrich Klaasen. While many praised the athleticism and called it a brilliant piece of fielding, others questioned whether the catch was clean. Several fans debated whether Salt had full control or if the ball had touched the boundary during the effort. Social media was divided, with replays being closely analysed.