DHAKA — Pakistan batter Salman Ali Agha said Bangladesh captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz should have shown “sportsman spirit” after dismissing him in a controversial run-out during the second One-Day International between Pakistan and Bangladesh in Dhaka on Friday.
The incident occurred at the non-striker’s end when Agha stepped out of his crease while attempting to return the ball to the bowler after teammate Mohammad Rizwan had played a shot toward him. Miraz moved behind Agha, collected the ball and broke the stumps, resulting in Agha’s dismissal.
The decision was within the laws of cricket but quickly reignited debate about the “spirit of cricket,” similar to the discussion sparked during the 2023 Ashes when Australia wicketkeeper Alex Carey stumped England’s Jonny Bairstow at Lord’s.
Read: Pakistan bowled out for 114 as Bangladesh win first ODI by 8 wickets
Speaking to reporters after Pakistan’s 128-run victory, Agha said the dismissal was legal but added that he would have handled the situation differently.
“I think sportsman spirit has to be there,” Agha said. “What he has done is within the law. If he thinks it’s right, it’s right, but if you ask me my perspective, I would have done differently.”
Moment sparks reaction on the field
Agha showed visible frustration immediately after the dismissal, throwing his gloves and helmet near the crease. However, he later described the reaction as a response in the heat of the moment.
He explained that he had bent down only to return the ball to the bowler and was not attempting to take a run.
“I was just trying to give him the ball back,” Agha said. “I was not looking for the run or anything like that, but he had already decided.”
Despite the brief controversy, Pakistan went on to secure a commanding 128-run victory in the rain-affected match, levelling the three-match series at 1-1.
The deciding third ODI between Pakistan and Bangladesh is scheduled to be played on Sunday in Dhaka.
Today's E-Paper