Indian umpire in ICU after ball hits him in the face

An umpire was hospitalised after being struck on the side of his face by a powerful straight drive during a Delhi Premier League match, with local media reporting that he was admitted to an intensive care unit for observation.

Dharmesh Bhardwaj was hit while officiating the match between East Delhi Riders and New Delhi Tigers in the Indian capital. The incident occurred in the 18th over of New Delhi Tigers' chase when batter Lakshay Thareja struck a fierce drive straight back towards bowler Ashish Meena.

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Bhardwaj was positioned directly in the ball's path and had little time to react as the shot flew towards him at considerable pace. The ball struck him on the side of his face, prompting immediate medical attention.

Commentators said it was the second time Bhardwaj had been hit during the match and suggested that the latest blow warranted further medical checks because of where he had been struck.

Bhardwaj, who is a BCCI umpire, was subsequently taken to hospital as a precaution. Indian media reports said he was admitted to the ICU, where doctors monitored his vital signs.

The Delhi Premier League is a domestic Twenty20 competition played in Delhi and featuring a number of emerging Indian cricketers.