Angelo Mathews' 'Timed Out' Dismissal Sparks Controversy and Refusal to Shake Hands

The decision to dismiss Angelo Mathews of Sri Lanka via 'time out' was deemed "disgraceful" by the all-rounder, who was left in "complete shock" by it.

In a thrilling match played in the midst of extreme air pollution here on Monday, Bangladesh officially eliminated Sri Lanka from the World Cup with a three-wicket victory, making Mathews the first batter in international cricket history to be timed out.

"There is nothing wrong with me. I prepared in the allotted two minutes, but something went wrong with the equipment, and I'm not sure where common sense went. "It was a disgrace for Bangladesh and Shakib," Mathews stated at the press conference following the game.

"There is a serious problem if they want to play cricket that way and go to that extent. I still had five seconds remaining if I arrived late—after my allotted two minutes—and the law required me to get ready in that time.

"It was just pure commonsense, I am not saying (doing) 'Mankading' or obstructing the field here, It is absolutely disgraceful." When Mathews was timed out—the first time in international cricket across formats—his dismissal opened a new chapter in the intense rivalry between the two teams.

After Sadeera Samarawickrama was bowled out by Shakib on the second ball of the 25th over, Mathews entered the field. However, he did not prepare to face the ball within the allotted two minutes, as he discovered that his helmet's strap was broken.

Bangladesh appealed the delay, and the umpires upheld the decision in spite of Mathews' persistent requests.

After the game, there was no handshake between the two teams.

"You ought to honor those who honor us. Each of us represents this wonderful game. Regarding the reason Sri Lankan players refused to shake hands with their opponents following the game, he said, "If you don't respect and use your commonsense then what more can you ask for."

I had the utmost respect for Shakib and the Bangladeshi team up until today. It goes without saying that everyone plays to win, as long as it stays within the rules. However, I arrived there in less than two minutes—we have video proof. A statement will be released later. From the moment the catch was made until I reached the crease, I am speaking with evidence," Mathews stated.

We discuss player safety. So, was it appropriate for me to play without a helmet? The umpires could have checked upstairs because they had a larger task. Not even the wicketkeeper removes their helmet. It makes sense. It was a total equipment failure.

"In my fifteen years, I have never witnessed a team fall to this depth. Evidently, umpires had the option to verify upstairs (with the TV umpire). I'm not saying that the match would have been won if I had been present.

"Common sense must prevail; there was obviously a malfunction. I did not break the strap by pulling on it. I was stunned beyond belief. Unfortunately, Bangladesh is a case in point. No other team, in my opinion, would take that action.

"They knew it was not a waste of time, and Shakib had the option. Although he had the option to avoid approaching the umpires, he chose to take a different route." Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan responded, "No, not at all," when asked if he regretted his choice to file an appeal. One of our field workers approached me and informed me that, according to the law, he was fired for failing to take guard within the allotted time.

"I then made an umpire appeal. Since 2006, when we played in the Under-19 World Cup, I've known Angelo for a very long time. Yes, I do better following the rules. When questioned whether it went against the spirit of cricket, Shakib responded, "Well, then the ICC should change the rules." Shakib responded, "He came and asked me whether I will withdraw my appeal or not," when asked what Mathews had said to him at the time of the incident. "You know, I understand your situation," I remarked. Although it was regrettable, I don't want to.

Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Press Time staff and has been published from a syndicated feed.