Salman’s lapse sparks runout drama

The age-old debate over the ethereal spirit of the game was reignited yesterday during the second ODI between Bangladesh and Pakistan in Mirpur because of Salman Ali Agha’s bizarre run out, which could either be deemed a clear case of brain fade from the batter or a lack of sportsmanship from the fielder.  

The incident occurred in the 39th over when Bangladesh skipper Mehidy Hasan Miraz came in to bowl with Pakistan well placed at 230 for three.

Mohammad Rizwan drove a length delivery straight down the ground, right where Salman was standing at the non-striker’s end.

Instead of moving away from the line of the ball, Salman gingerly turned to make it back to the crease. At the same time, Miraz quickly got behind Salman and stopped the ball with his right foot.

The ball laid motionless between Miraz and Salman, and the batter, instead of trying to get back inside the crease, tried to pick it up, perhaps assuming that the ball was dead, which it wasn’t.

Miraz, still vigilant and aware, snuck the ball away from just under Salman’s gloves and produced a direct hit with the batter strangely static outside the crease.

Salman was seen immediately debating the proceedings with Miraz and then threw his gloves and helmet onto the ground in equal parts anger and frustration.

He then exchanged some stern words with a few Bangladeshi players and Litton Das and Miraz were apparently fuming at Salman’s reaction. Najmul Hossain Shanto seemingly tried to calm the situation as Salman left the field, given out by the third umpire, still fuming and again throwing his gears onto the ground just before entering the dugout.

Former Pakistan cricketer Ramiz Raza, who is commentating in the match, in his immediate reaction to the dismissal said on-air, “As far as the law is concerned, he is out, but sportsmanship, I am afraid, got a massive hit.”

Salman’s dismissal on a well-made 64 off 62 deliveries proved crucial for Bangladesh as after he furiously walked to the dressing room, the Pakistan innings crumbled.

The visitors lost their remaining six wickets for just 43 runs, and were bundled out for 274 in just 47.3 overs.

Interestingly, had Miraz not gone for the run out and just let Salman grab onto the ball, the end result would have most likely been the same.

As the ball was still in play, Bangladesh could have then appealed against Salman for obstructing the field and chances are that the third umpire would have heeded to their appeal and send Salman packing.

Debates can rage on, but the fact remains that by going for the ball and not rushing to get inside the crease, Salman displayed a lapse in judgement, which ultimately caused his demise.