In a historic turn of events during the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, Sri Lanka’s veteran cricketer Angelo Mathews found himself at the center of a rare and unprecedented incident, becoming the first batter ever to be “timed out” in international cricket.
The incident occurred during Sri Lanka’s crucial encounter against Bangladesh on Monday, as reported by ESPNcricinfo. Umpires Marais Erasmus and Richard Illingworth made the groundbreaking decision to give Mathews out without him facing a single delivery. This decision was made in accordance with the International Cricket Council (ICC) playing conditions, which allow a maximum of two minutes for the incoming batter to be ready to receive the ball after the fall of a wicket or retirement.
The unique dismissal happened in the 25th over of the Sri Lankan innings. After Shakib Al Hasan dismissed Sadeera Samarawickrama, Angelo Mathews walked in to bat at No.6. However, his entry into the game was delayed as the strap on his helmet appeared to be broken, prompting Mathews to call for a replacement helmet.
Per the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 playing conditions regarding “timed out” dismissals, it is specified that “After the fall of a wicket or the retirement of a batter, the incoming batter must, unless Time has been called, be ready to receive the ball, or for the other batter to be ready to receive the next ball within 2 minutes of the dismissal or retirement. If this requirement is not met, the incoming batter will be out, Timed out.”
Angelo Mathews’ timed out dismissal marks the first instance in international cricket, both men’s and women’s, where a batter has been dismissed according to this specific law. This unprecedented moment has sparked discussions and debates within the cricketing community, as it highlights the importance of adhering to the strict timing regulations set by the ICC.
As the World Cup continues, cricket enthusiasts and experts alike will keep a close eye on this groundbreaking event, which has added an unexpected chapter to the storied history of international cricket.
