Former Indian cricketer Venkatesh Prasad has criticized Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan for his decision to appeal for Angelo Mathews’ dismissal for being ‘timed out’ during the World Cup 2023 match against Sri Lanka. Mathews was controversially dismissed on Monday after he failed to face the ball within the stipulated two-minute time frame following the fall of a wicket. Shakib’s decision to appeal sparked a heated debate among cricket enthusiasts and experts alike, with many questioning his sportsmanship.
Prasad, known for his candid views, took to social media platform X to express his thoughts on the incident. He wrote that Shakib’s talent would have considered him one of the greats of the game, but his “attitude towards the sport” has been questionable, citing his previous bans and his tendency to consider himself “bigger than the game.”
Prasad’s comments highlight the fact that Shakib has a history of controversies. In 2019, he was banned for two years for failing to report a corrupt approach. He has also been accused of intimidating umpires in the past.
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He wrote, “Purely on cricketing talent, Shakib Al Hasan would have been considered as one of the greats of the game. But be it being banned after the 2019 World Cup for failing to report approach, intimidating umpires, considering himself bigger than the game, it’s no surprise what he did yesterday.”
Purely on cricketing talent , Shakib Al Hasan would have been considered as one of the greats of the game. But be it being banned after the 2019 World Cup for failing to report approach, intimidating umpires, considering himself bigger than the game, it’s no surprise what he did…
— Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) November 7, 2023
Venkatesh Prasad’s words suggest that Shakib’s decision to appeal for Mathews’ dismissal was not simply a matter of following the rules, but also a reflection of his attitude towards the game. He implies that Shakib is willing to win at all costs, even if it means sacrificing the spirit of cricket.
The ‘timed out’ dismissal of Mathews is the first of its kind in the 146-year history of international cricket. The incident has sparked a debate about the ‘spirit of cricket’ and the role of captains in upholding it.
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Shakib has defended his decision, saying that he felt like he “was at war” and had to do whatever it took to win. However, his actions have certainly stirred up a storm in the cricketing world. It remains to be seen how this incident will impact Shakib’s standing in international cricket. However, Prasad’s comments are a reminder that his actions are not just about winning and losing, but also about the values that he represents.
