Sri Lankan all-rounder Angelo Mathews on Monday expressed his shock and disappointment over Bangladesh's decision to dismiss him via a 'time out,' which he deemed as "disgraceful." This unprecedented incident occurred during a dramatic match against Bangladesh that resulted in a three-wicket win, knocking Sri Lanka out of the World Cup.
Mathews, the first batter in international cricket history to be timed out, spoke out during the post-match press conference. He emphasized that he hadn't done anything wrong and elaborated on the circumstances surrounding his dismissal. Mathews claimed that he was given two minutes to get ready, which he duly adhered to. However, an equipment malfunction related to his helmet strap hindered his preparations. He questioned the absence of common sense in the decision, describing it as "disgraceful" and criticized Bangladesh, particularly Shakib, for their role in this incident.
"I haven't done anything wrong. I had two minutes to get ready which I did but there was an equipment malfunction and I don't know where commonsense (had) gone. It was disgraceful from Shakib and Bangladesh," Mathews said.
The controversy arose when Mathews walked in to bat after Sadeera Samarawickrama was dismissed on the second ball of the 25th over, bowled by Shakib. Mathews realized that the strap of his helmet was broken, leading to a delay in getting ready to face the ball. Bangladesh seized this opportunity to appeal, and the umpires upheld the appeal, despite Mathews' repeated pleas. This incident heightened the tension between the two teams, leading to the unprecedented scenario where they did not shake hands after the match.
"You want to respect people who respect us. We are all ambassadors of this beautiful game. If you don't respect and use your commonsense then what more you can ask for," he said while responding to a question on why Sri Lankan players did not shake hands with their opponents after the match.
Mathews stressed the importance of mutual respect in the game of cricket, emphasizing that players are ambassadors of the sport. He highlighted the need for common sense and respect for the rules. Mathews also alluded to video evidence that supported his position, indicating that he was within the two-minute time frame. He pointed out that player safety was paramount, and the equipment malfunction was beyond his control.
Mathews argued that the umpires should have sought assistance from the TV umpire to ensure a fair decision. Mathews maintained that it was a malfunction and not a deliberate act on his part. He expressed his disbelief that such an incident occurred, especially involving Bangladesh, and insinuated that no other team would have taken such a course of action.
On the other hand, Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan defended his team's decision to appeal, stating that they were within their rights to do so. He referred to the rules and the time-frame in which Mathews had failed to take guard. Shakib also pointed out that he and Mathews had known each other since their Under-19 World Cup days and emphasized that he was abiding by the rules.
When questioned about the spirit of cricket, Shakib asserted that the rules needed to be modified if such situations were deemed against the spirit of the game. He revealed that Mathews had approached him, asking if he would withdraw the appeal, to which Shakib responded by understanding the situation but maintaining his stance.
"He came and asked me whether I will withdraw my appeal or not. I said, 'you know, I understand your situation'. It was unfortunate, but I don't want to," Shakib said.
(With agency inputs)
Also Read | Angelo Mathews Becomes The First Cricketer to Be Dismissed 'Timed Out'
