Understanding the ‘Timed Out’ Rule in Cricket and Its First-Ever Application in International Cricket

Angelo Mathews etched his name into cricket history as the inaugur♑al plaওyer to be dismissed through the "timed out" rule in international cricket.

BUDDY

November 7, 2023

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BUDDY

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Understanding the ‘Timed Out’ Rule in Cricket and Its First-Ever Application in International Cricket

Angelo Mathews etched his name into cricket history as theꦍ inaugural player to be dismissed through the "timed out" rule in international cricket.

Time Out
Time Out

Angelo Mathews went down꧟ in the history books as the first batter to be timed out in internationa🐼l cricket.

In a historic turn of events during the 2023 World Cup match between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, Angelo Mathews found himself etched in the annals of cricket history as the first batter to be dismissed under the ‘timed out’ law in international cricket. This unexpected incident unfolded well before the match reached its halfway point, leaving Mathews and cricket enthusiasts surprised.

The Timed Out Incident

The story began when Bangladesh won the toss and opted to bowl first. The crucial moment took place during the 25th over of Sri Lanka’s innings. Sadeera Samarawickrama had been sent back to the pavilion by Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan after contributing 41 runs from 42 balls. Mathews, the veteran Sri Lankan all-rounder, entered the field at No.6, but his arrival was marked by a seemingly prolonged delay. Once at the crease, he realized that the strap on his helmet was damaged, prompting him to signal to the Sri Lankan dressing room for a replacement.

As Mathews waited for a new helmet, Shakib initiated a conversation with umpire Marais Erasmus, donning a smile on his face. Subsequently, the Bangladesh captain raised his hands and inquired, “How was that? Officially I am asking.” The umpires decided to uphold the appeal, triggering a protracted discussion involving Mathews, the umpires, and the Bangladesh players. Ultimately, a puzzled Mathews made his way off the field.

Understanding the 'Timed Out' Rule

The ‘timed out’ rule, though one of the sport’s oldest regulations, has seen rare applications in domestic cricket globally. However, Mathews’ dismissal marked the first instance of this rule being invoked in international cricket. The International Cricket Council (ICC) promptly released a statement elucidating the dismissal’s basis according to the tournament’s playing conditions. The rule, as stated, reads as follows:

40.1.1 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.

This rule deviates slightly from the MCC’s definition for other international matches, where batters are granted three minutes to take their place in the middle.

Sri Lanka eventually concluded their innings at 279 runs for the loss of all wickets in 49.3 overs, with Charith Asalanka making an impressive contribution of 108 runs from 105 balls. Asalanka, reflecting on Mathews’ dismissal, remarked, “My point is that Mathews’ dismissal was not good for the spirit of cricket, even though it is within the rules.” The incident sparked a conversation on the balance between adhering to the rules and upholding the spirit of the game in the world of cricket.

Last Updated: Nov 7, 2023