The bat was quite clearly over the line.....The bunker should never been bought into question.....Umpires need to grow some balls.....
Cheers Tracker.
Have to disagree there...
The bat being on the ground has always been the rule, even in junior cricket. Was when I played and it is now.
If you slide your bat properly, it's not a problem. If you're too lazy to make sure, then it's your problem.
On world class grounds, there shouldn't be bumps big enough to make your bat jump, so it's entirely up to the batsmen to make sure.
No different to the stumping rule. So a batsman can just have their foot over the line, but not touching the ground??
How far above the ground is acceptable? One inch, 10cm? Open to interpretation, which is the bane of umpires in all sports.
At least this rule is clear. Bat off the ground is out. Always has been.