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World Cup Classic: When Angelo Mathews Got 'Timed Out' By Shakib Al Hasan In BAN Vs SL

Akshita Patel

Angelo Matthews getting timed out against Bangladesh [Source: @praneetsamaiya, @ImTanujSingh/X.com]Angelo Matthews getting timed out against Bangladesh [Source: @praneetsamaiya, @ImTanujSingh/X.com]

In one of cricket's most dramatic and rarest moments, Sri Lanka's Angelo Mathews became the first cricketer to be dismissed 'timed out' in international cricket history. The rare moment occurred on November 6, 2023, during a World Cup 2023 match between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh in Delhi.

How Clever Bangladesh Deceived Angelo Mathews Into ‘Time Out’ Dismissal

Here's what happened. Sri Lankan veteran batter Angelo Mathews came out to bat after the fall of a wicket, but just as he was tightening his helmet strap, it snapped. 

He immediately called for a replacement helmet, which was brought to him by teammate Chamika Karunaratne. However, by this time, more than 2 minutes had passed since the last batter got out, and according to the ICC rules, the new batter must be ready to face the ball within 2 minutes.

Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan complained to the umpire that Mathews was not in position in time. After discussing with fellow umpires and Mathews, the appeal was upheld, and Mathews was declared out, timed out, even though the delay was due to an equipment issue. 

The batter was shocked. He argued with the umpires, tried to explain the situation, and even had a word with Shakib, but nothing changed. As he walked off, frustrated and disappointed, he kicked his helmet and threw his bat.

Although Sri Lanka were struggling at that point, Charith Asalanka later scored a century, helping the team post a competitive total of 279. But Mathews’ unusual dismissal remained the big talking point of the match, a moment that made cricket history for all the wrong reasons.

It also ignited a rivalry between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, as both teams took sarcastic digs at each other on various occasions.