During a recent one-day international (ODI) match between Bangladesh and New Zealand, a remarkable display of sportsmanship captured the hearts of cricket fans worldwide. The incident occurred during the second ODI between the two teams at the Sher-e-Bangla cricket stadium. In the 46th over of the first innings, Bangladesh’s Hasan Mahmud noticed that New Zealand’s leg-spinner Ish Sodhi had ventured out of the crease at the non-striker’s end, attempting to steal a run. Mahmud quickly recognized the opportunity and executed a Mankad dismissal, removing the bails at the bowler’s end with Sodhi out of his crease.
Sodhi, believing he was dismissed, started walking back towards the pavilion, and the umpire signaled him out after checking the dismissal. However, in an extraordinary act of sportsmanship, Bangladesh’s skipper, Litton Das, discussed with the umpire, Marais Erasmus, and decided to call Sodhi back to the field.
A heartwarming moment followed as Sodhi returned to the crease, and he and Mahmud shared a hug. This gesture of sportsmanship melted the hearts of cricket fans worldwide.
Given a second chance, Sodhi scored 35 runs off 39 balls and was the final wicket to fall in New Zealand’s innings. The Kiwis posted a total of 254 runs on the scoreboard.
Social media erupted with praise for both teams, particularly for Bangladesh’s captain and bowler, for their display of sportsmanship. Users on various platforms commended Litton Das and Hasan Mahmud for their remarkable acts on the cricket field.
The incident also reignited the debate around the controversial mode of dismissal known as ‘Mankading.’ However, it’s worth noting that the MCC (Marylebone Cricket Club) reclassified Mankading as a ‘Run Out’ rather than ‘Unfair Play’ as part of rule changes that came into being on October 1, 2022. This change aimed to destigmatize the method.
This heartening incident adds to the spirit of cricket. It showcases the values of sportsmanship and fair play that cricket enthusiasts hold dear. Cricket fans continue to celebrate moments that uphold the gentleman’s spirit of the game.