Sri Lanka all-rounder Angelo Mathews found himself dismissed in a rather unusual manner during the World Cup match against Bangladesh. Mathews failed to make it to the pitch on time, resulting in a timed-out dismissal. According to the rules, a batter must reach the pitch within 3 minutes (2 minutes in World Cups) of the previous player’s dismissal and be ready to face the next delivery.
Mathews had already entered the ground but encountered an issue with his helmet, necessitating a replacement. Unfortunately for him, the maximum allowed time had already elapsed. Bangladesh skipper Shakib Al Hasan decided to appeal, and the officials had no choice but to give Mathews out.
As a result, Mathews had to depart without even facing a single delivery. This historic dismissal made him the first cricketer ever to be out on a timed-out dismissal. The incident took place during the World Cup match in Delhi.
According to Rule 40.1.1, after a wicket falls or a batter retires, the incoming batter must be ready to receive the ball within 3 minutes of the dismissal or retirement, unless time has been called. Failure to meet this requirement will result in a timed-out dismissal.
Furthermore, Rule 40.1.2 states that if there is an extended delay in which no batter comes to the wicket, the umpires will adopt the procedure of Law 16.3, which pertains to umpires awarding a match. The start of the action will be considered as the expiration of the 3 minutes mentioned earlier.
It is important to note that the bowler does not receive credit for this type of dismissal, similar to a run-out incident. Mathews was understandably frustrated upon returning to the dugout. This form of dismissal is likely to spark controversy and ignite debates among fans and experts of the game, much like a non-striker run-out.
Overall, Mathews’ timed-out dismissal has brought attention to this lesser-known rule, leaving room for discussions on its fairness and implications.
