New Delhi, India

It has been over a month since Deepti Sharma ran Charlie Dean out, at the non-striker's end, as the batter was taking unfair advantage for backing up too far. Since then, Deepti's act has been talked about a lot and has led to divided opinions. While many have backed and lauded Deepti, and fairly blamed Charlie, the English and Aussie cricketers refrain from considering it as a legitimate form of dismissal -- although the International Cricket Council (ICC) and MCC have included it to the run-out law from unfair play -- all-rounder Hardik Pandya joined the bandwagon and shared a strong response in this regard.

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Speaking on the latest episode of ICC Review podcast, the 28-year-old Hardik said, "Because you gave the example, we need to stop making a fuss about this. It's a rule, simple as that. To hell with the Spirit of the Game, if it's there, remove the rules, simple as that. The ones who have problems, good for them, that's fine."

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The all-rounder further opined that he would be fine if a bowler runs him out at the non-striker's end. Hardik added, "Personally, I have no problem. If I am out, if I am walking out and someone runs me out, fair enough, it's my mistake, not the bowlers. It is using the rules to one's advantage. Simple as that, let’s not make a big deal, that's it."

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Hardik was last seen in action during India's memorable four-wicket win over Pakistan in the Super 12 clash at the T20 World Cup (T20 WC) 2022 edition on Sunday (October 23). Hardik returned with 3 for 30, after Rohit Sharma & Co. opted to bowl first at the MCG, Melbourne, and stitched a match-winning 113-run fifth-wicket stand with Virat Kohli (82 not out off 53 balls) to score a 37-ball 40 and help India prevail on the final ball of the contest while chasing 160.

Hardik-starrer India will now face the Netherlands on October 27 (Thursday) at the SCG, Sydney.