Kamal Ghorui
39th-over incident sparks controversy
The dramatic moment unfolded in the 39th over of Pakistan’s innings when a quick reaction from Mehidy led to Agha’s dismissal. Mohammad Rizwan nudged the ball to the right of the bowler, where Mehidy moved across and stopped it with his boot. At the same time, Agha was outside his crease and collided slightly with the Bangladesh skipper as the ball stopped near them.
Believing the ball had effectively become dead, Agha bent down to pick it up and return it. However, Mehidy reacted quickly, grabbed the ball and underarmed it onto the stumps, catching Agha outside the crease.The on-field umpire Tanvir Ahmed referred the decision to the third umpire. After reviewing the replay, the third umpire ruled that the ball was still in play, making the dismissal completely valid under the laws of cricket. Agha was run out for 64 off 62 balls, including seven fours and two sixes, but the decision triggered heated exchanges between the players. Bangladesh wicketkeeper Litton Das also appeared involved in the argument before teammates intervened to calm the situation.
Mehidy Hasan Miraz explains his decision
Speaking during the post-match presentation, Bangladesh captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz explained the thought process behind the run-out.“You have to take responsibility as well because if you’re not getting runs, definitely we are not in good positions. On the Agha run-out, he was just away from the wickets and I was looking for the ball. If you miss it, definitely he’s going for the run, so that’s what I was thinking,” Mehidy said.Pakistan dominate as Bangladesh stumble in chaseDespite the controversy, Pakistan produced a strong overall performance to level the series. Bangladesh’s chase was reduced to 32 overs due to interruptions, but the hosts struggled to keep up with the required rate. Pakistan eventually sealed a comfortable 128-run victory, drawing the series level heading into the decider.
