The first Test between Pakistan and Bangladesh got off to a fiery start on Wednesday, with a controversial decision sparking a heated exchange between Pakistan captain Shan Masood and the umpires. Masood was given out caught behind off Shoriful Islam, but replays showed that the ball had not made contact with his bat.
The incident occurred in the seventh over of the Pakistan innings, with Shan Masood looking to defend a short-of-length delivery. The ball swung back sharply and struck the wicketkeeper’s gloves, leading to an immediate appeal. The on-field umpires were unsure and referred the decision to the third umpire.
After a lengthy review, the third umpire ruled in favor of the bowling side, much to Masood’s dismay. The Pakistan captain expressed his frustration to the umpires, believing that the decision was incorrect. However, the umpires stood firm, and Shan Masood was forced to walk back to the pavilion.
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The dismissal was a significant blow to Pakistan, who were already struggling to rebuild after losing early wickets. Babar Azam, Pakistan’s star batsman, was dismissed for a duck in the same over, leaving the team reeling at 16/3.
Out or not out❓
Shan Masood is dismissed by Shoriful Islam.#PAKvBAN | #TestOnHai pic.twitter.com/8OgkgQKHPa
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) August 21, 2024
However, Saud Shakeel and Saim Ayub counterattacked effectively, stitching a crucial partnership of 65 runs before the tea break. Their positive approach provided some respite for the Pakistan team, who will be hoping to build on their momentum in the second session.
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The controversial decision involving Shan Masood has added an extra layer of intrigue to the match. It will be interesting to see how the Pakistan team responds to the setback and whether they can recover to post a competitive total.
