Controversy erupts as Mathews becomes 1st batter to be ‘timed out’

Entering the records books for all the wrong reasons, veteran batter Angelo Mathews was given out without facing a single ball in match No. 39 of the ICC World Cup 2023 between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh on Monday.

Mathews was livid with himself after match umpire Marais Erasmus adjudged him out following an appeal made by Bangladesh for a time-out.

The Sri Lankan all-rounder scripted an unwanted record by becoming the first batter to get timed out at the One Day International (ODI) World Cup.

Interestingly, Matthews is also the first batter to cap off this rare dismissal in men's international cricket. Following the dismissal of Sadeera Samarawickrama in the 24th over, the Sri Lankan batter walked out to face Bangladesh skipper Shakib Al Hasan.

Mathews arrived at the crease with the wrong helmet and his schoolboy error paved the way for Shakib and Co. to appeal for a time-out.

Mathews creates unwanted record at World Cup

As per the laws, the batter needs to be ready to face the ball within three minutes of arriving at the crease.

Matthews tried to explain his case to Shakib as the Sri Lankan batter argued about being late to face the first ball because the strap of his helmet was broken.

However, Shakib refused to withdraw the appeal and Mathews received his marching orders in Delhi.

Matthews was given out timed out as the star batter was not ready to face the first ball of his innings within the stipulated time.