Bucknor vs Sachin — 2003 World Cup Semi-Final

Throughout the 2003 World Cup, Steve Bucknor's decisions came under intense scrutiny, particularly those involving Indian batsmen. His LBW decision against Sachin Tendulkar in the group stage match versus England was the most prominent, but there were other contentious calls throughout the tournament.

Bucknor had a long career as one of the ICC's elite umpires, standing in a record number of Tests. However, his later career was marked by increasing errors, and he became a divisive figure, particularly in Indian cricket circles.

Indian fans compiled lists of his incorrect decisions against their players. Whether or not there was bias — and there is no credible evidence of intentional bias — the statistical pattern of errors against India in high-profile matches was striking.

Bucknor retired from international umpiring in 2009. His legacy is complicated: he was once considered the world's best umpire but is now primarily remembered for the controversies of his final years, particularly the 2008 Sydney Test.