Handling the Ball Controversy: Mushfiqur Rahim’s Dismissal for Obstructing the Field

Mushfiqur Rahim’s Dismissal for Obstructing the Field

At the time of the incident, Mushfiqur was batting at 35. At that point, Bangladesh was at 104/5 after a partnership of 57 runs between Mushfiqur and Shahadat Hossain.

In a historic moment during the second Test between Bangladesh and New Zealand, Mushfiqur Rahim, the veteran Bangladesh batter, was controversially given out for obstructing the field. This rare mode of dismissal, known as “handling the ball,” occurs when a batsman intentionally tries to prevent the ball from hitting the stumps using their hand. Rahim’s dismissal has sparked debates and discussions among cricket enthusiasts worldwide. Let’s delve deeper into the incident and understand the intricacies of this unusual dismissal.

The Incident

During the 41st over of Bangladesh’s first innings, Mushfiqur Rahim faced a delivery from New Zealand’s Kyle Jamieson. Rahim, attempting to defend the back-of-the-length ball, failed to make solid contact. Realizing that the ball could potentially hit the stumps after bouncing near the crease, Rahim instinctively used his left glove to push it away. The New Zealand fielders immediately appealed for an obstructing the field dismissal, leading the on-field umpires to refer the decision to the TV umpire for review.

The Decision

After careful examination, the TV umpire deemed that Rahim had intentionally handled the ball and therefore gave him out for obstructing the field. This decision marked a significant moment in Bangladesh cricket history, as Rahim became the first Bangladeshi batter to be dismissed for obstructing the field in international cricket across all formats.

Interestingly, Rahim had attempted a similar action earlier in the innings. In the 29th over, bowled by Tim Southee, Rahim had defended a delivery that bounced just over the stumps. On that occasion, he also tried to knock the ball away with his glove but failed to make contact.

Understanding Obstructing the Field

The concept of “obstructing the field” encompasses various modes of dismissal, including handling the ball. The laws governing cricket, specifically Law 37.1.2, define the circumstances under which a batsman can be given out for obstructing the field. According to the law, a batsman is out obstructing the field if, during the act of receiving a ball delivered by the bowler, they deliberately strike the ball with a hand not holding the bat. This applies to both the first strike and subsequent strikes, including defensive shots to protect their wicket.

It is worth noting that handling the ball was previously categorized as a separate mode of dismissal known as “handled the ball.” However, a change in the laws in 2017 merged this category into the broader “obstructing the field” category.

Mushfiqur Rahim’s Contribution to the Innings

Before his controversial dismissal, Rahim played a crucial role in steadying the Bangladesh innings. With a handy innings of 35, he provided stability amidst a challenging situation. However, his wicket ultimately put Bangladesh on the backfoot, leaving them struggling at 104-5. The hosts had won the toss and chose to bat first, but they faced a strong bowling attack from New Zealand’s spinners, Ajaz Patel and Mitchell Santner, who each picked up two wickets.

Historical Significance of the Dismissal

Mushfiqur Rahim’s dismissal for obstructing the field holds historical significance not only for Bangladesh but also for international cricket. Rahim became the first Bangladeshi player to be given out in this manner. However, he is not alone in the annals of cricket history. England’s Leonard Hutton was the only other batter to be dismissed for obstructing the field in Test cricket. This incident occurred during a match against South Africa at The Oval in 1951.

It is worth mentioning that seven other Test cricketers have been dismissed for handling the ball. This mode of dismissal was integrated into the broader category of “obstructing the field” when the cricket laws were rewritten in 2017.

Bangladesh’s Struggles in the Test Series

Rahim’s dismissal adds to the challenges faced by the Bangladesh team in their Test series against New Zealand. The hosts found themselves in a difficult position, with the score at 129-6 at the time of writing. After winning the first Test, Bangladesh was hoping to secure their maiden Test series win against New Zealand. However, they faced a strong bowling attack from New Zealand’s spinners, which caused significant trouble for their top order.

Conclusion

Mushfiqur Rahim’s dismissal for obstructing the field during the second Test between Bangladesh and New Zealand has stirred up conversations in the cricketing world. This rare mode of dismissal highlights the intricacies of the sport and the importance of adhering to the laws of the game. While Rahim’s action was deemed intentional, it serves as a reminder to all players to be mindful of their movements on the field. As Bangladesh continues their Test series against New Zealand, they will need to overcome the challenges posed by their opponents and strive for a victory that would further establish their presence in international cricket.