NEW DELHI: Following Sri Lanka's series clinching victory in the third T20I against Bangladesh, the team's celebration reignited the controversial discourse surrounding Angelo Mathews' timed-out dismissal during the 2023 World Cup.
In a symbolic gesture, reminiscent of Mathews' dismissal, Sri Lanka's players pointed to their wrists as they celebrated their triumph in Sylhet on Saturday.
Bangladesh skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto extended congratulations to Sri Lanka on their series victory while urging them to shift their focus away from the contentious incident of November and concentrate on the upcoming fixtures of the tour.
Shanto emphasized the need to move on, stating, "They should stay in the present," and reiterated that the timed-out dismissal at the World Cup was well within the rules.
Expressing surprise at Sri Lanka's continued fixation on the issue, Shanto remarked, "They haven't moved on from the timed-out incident." He added, "They are in a frenzy about it."
The timed-out controversy originated during a World Cup group-stage clash in New Delhi between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. Angelo Mathews made history by becoming the first player in the annals of major international cricket to be timed out.
Despite Mathews' explanation regarding a helmet strap issue, Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan's appeal led to the dismissal being upheld by the umpires.
In reflection of the incident, Kusal Mendis, who played a pivotal role in Sri Lanka's T20 series victory with a career-best 86, acknowledged the team's engagement in the timed-out celebrations.
"We can celebrate our own things," Mendis stated, defending the team's right to revel in their success. He further explained, "I think we celebrated because we are happy."
As Sri Lanka gear up for the forthcoming one-day internationals in Chittagong, the debate surrounding Mathews' dismissal continues to linger, adding an additional layer of intrigue to the ongoing cricketing rivalry between the two nations.
(With inputs from AFP)
