OTD in 1999: Sachin Tendulkar’s run-out creates a riot, 65,000 fans removed from Eden Gardens

On February 19, 1999, Sachin Tendulkar’s run-out against Pakistan created a massive controversy as a riot broke out at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata. The legendary cricketer was batting on seven and gently pushed the ball against Wasim Akram to pick up a double and complete his 5000 runs in Test cricket. However, Tendulkar decided to run for a third when substitute Nadeem Khan’s direct hit from the deep got the better of him. While running for the third, Tendulkar collided with Shoaib Akhtar and fell on the ground and as a result, fell short of his ground. On-field umpire Steve Bucknor referred to the third umpire KT Francis, who, after a long delay, deemed Tendulkar out. The crowd in Kolkata lost their calm with the decision and immediately started protesting. So much so, that the match was halted for three hours. An early tea was called on Day 4 as the police tried to take control of the situation. Stones were thrown on the field, newspapers were burned, and abusive language was used as the police were forced to push out the spectators to restart the match. Source: https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.crictracker.com/on-this-day/otd-in-1999-sachin-tendulkars-run-out-creates-riots-65000-fans-removed-from-eden-gardens/%3famp=1