Salman Agha Faces Consequences for Equipment Mishandling in 2nd ODI Against Bangladesh
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Mirpur, March 14 (NationPress) - Pakistan's leading batsman Salman Agha has faced disciplinary action for mishandling his cricket gear during the second ODI against Bangladesh, held at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium on Friday.
As reported by the Daily Star, Agha received a demerit point after he angrily tossed his gloves onto the field following an unusual run-out at a pivotal moment in the game.
This incident took place in the 39th over of Pakistan's innings when the team was constructing a formidable partnership. Agha and Mohammad Rizwan had put together 109 runs for the fourth wicket after Pakistan had lost three early wickets.
During the fourth delivery of the over, bowled by Bangladesh’s captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Rizwan played a gentle shot down the ground. The ball rolled toward Agha, who was positioned outside his crease at the non-striker’s end.
As the ball hit his pads, Agha bent down to pick it up and returned it. However, Miraz swiftly collected the ball and broke the stumps while Agha was still outside the crease, prompting an appeal for a run-out.
The on-field umpire accepted the appeal and referred the decision to the third umpire, who confirmed Agha’s dismissal in favor of Bangladesh.
Clearly frustrated, Agha walked back to the pavilion, visibly upset. Footage showed him expressing his dissatisfaction and throwing his gear onto the ground, an act that constitutes a violation of the ICC Code of Conduct.
Match referee Neeyamur Rashid explained to the Daily Star on Saturday, "The incident involved abusing cricket equipment on the field during his exit. Agha has no prior record of such conduct. We maintain neutrality in our judgments, which led to the reprimand and demerit point being issued.”
He further stated, “We considered the regulations, our training, and the playing conditions, and consulted with the ICC before making our final decision. Our judgment was based on neutrality.”
This incident breached Article 2.2 of the ICC Code of Conduct regarding 'abuse of cricket equipment or clothing, ground equipment, or fixtures during an International Match.'
Following Agha's dismissal, Pakistan's innings ended with a total of 274 runs in 47.3 overs, with Maaz Sadaqat being the top scorer at 75 runs.
After a rain delay, Bangladesh was set a target of 243 runs in 32 overs but was bowled out for just 114 runs in 23.3 overs. With this victory, the series is now tied at 1-1, with the final match scheduled for Sunday.