Unsporting conduct: Murali run out

The last pair of Kumar Sangakkara and Murali fighting hard to gain a substantial lead the latter was run out when he stepped out of the crease to congratulate a celebrating Sangakkara who had just completed a brilliant ton his 11th in test cricket.

Brendon McCullum removed the bails with Murali left stranded in utter disbelief. The Kiwis argued that the ball was still alive when he stepped out but were accused of unsportmanlike behaviour.

Skipper Mahela jayawardena said "I am disappointed and the whole team is disappointed. Legally that`s out but these days people talk about the Spirit of Cricket and sportsmanship.

It was obvious that Murali wasn`t going to sneak another run and he was going to congratulate Kumar".

Dec 2006 1st Test Christchurch.