Table of Contents
Bangladesh’s Jaker Ali found himself at the centre of a controversy during his team’s encounter against Nepal in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024. A video clip has gone viral on social media, showing Ali seemingly seeking guidance from the dressing room before helping his teammate, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, review an LBW decision.
Jaker Ali sparks controversy with DRS consultation
The incident unfolded in the 14th over of Bangladesh’s innings. Nepal spinner Sandeep Lamichhane sent down a delivery that struck Sakib on the pads, prompting the umpire to raise his finger. As Sakib began his walk back to the pavilion, cameras captured Ali looking towards the Bangladesh dugout. He then made a gesture towards his partner, seemingly urging him to review the decision, just as the DRS timer was about to expire.
The on-field umpires were unaware of the potential breach of regulations, and the review was duly taken.
Replays revealed the ball missing leg stump, leading to the overturning of the on-field decision. However, Tanzim’s reprieve was short-lived, as the 21-year-old was dismissed by Lamichhane’s googly on the very next delivery. But Ali’s actions have sparked a debate about the spirit of the game.
Here’t the video:
Is this allowed @icc?
Non striker asked for assistance from the dressing room whether to take the DRS or not. 😭pic.twitter.com/7aJnl2YDMn
— 𝐊𝐨𝐡𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐭!𝟎𝐧_👑🚩 (@bholination) June 17, 2024
Also READ: T20 World Cup – Top 5 bowlers with the most dot balls in a single spell ft. Tanzim Hasan Sakib
ICC’s rule on seeking help from the dressing room
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has strict guidelines regarding player communication during DRS reviews. Players are only allowed to discuss the dismissal with the teammate directly involved and cannot seek external advice.
According to Article 3.2.3 of the tournament’s playing conditions, umpires can decline the DRS call if they believe the players have received inputs from off the field. Article 2.15 of the ICC’s Code of Conduct also prohibits players from taking an off-field help to decide for a review, with potential penalties including suspensions.
With the video going viral, fans have expressed mixed reactions. Some believe Ali’s actions were a clever tactic, while others have criticized them as against the spirit of fair play. The ICC is yet to comment on the incident, but it is sure that Ali and Tanzim have to face charges of committing a Level 3 offence if found guilty of the alleged breach.
