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In an intriguing turn during the Day 1 second Test clash between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka in Chattogram, the Bangladesh cricket team made a curious decision to utilize the Decision Review System (DRS) for a delivery that was nowhere near the batter’s pad, as captured in a widely circulated video on social media.
Curious DRS decision by Najmul Hossain Shanto in Chattogram Test
The incident unfolded amidst the intensity of the game, specifically during the fifth delivery of the 44th over, delivered with precision by left-arm spinner Taijul Islam. In a moment of strategic contemplation, right-handed batter Kusal Mendis elegantly maneuvered the ball to the off side after a subtle advance down the track.
Witnessing this subtle interplay, Bangladesh skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto, positioned strategically at slip, engaged in a brief discourse with the bowler before electing to challenge the umpire’s decision through the intricate mechanism of the DRS. However, upon meticulous examination through the lens of technology, the replays unequivocally demonstrated the unmistakable contact of willow on leather, thus vindicating the on-field umpire’s original verdict. In the end, Shanto appeared amused by the incident.
Here’s the video:
What just happened? 👀
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.#BANvSL #FanCode #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/sJBR5jMSov— FanCode (@FanCode) March 30, 2024
Changes in the playing XI
Earlier in the match, the toss of fortune favoured Sri Lanka, who, in a calculated maneuver, opted to seize the opportunity of batting first. Notably, the Sri Lankan contingent made a solitary alteration to their esteemed playing eleven, with the agile Asitha Fernando stepping into the fray, replacing the regrettably sidelined Kasun Rajitha. Meanwhile, Bangladesh made two changes to their playing XI, including the seasoned campaigner Shakib al Hasan and the debutant Hasan Mahmud.
Also READ: BAN vs SL 2024, Test Series: Broadcast, Live Streaming details – When and where to watch in India, USA, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka & other nations
Sri Lanka’s toss advantage and batting display
The Sri Lankan batters orchestrated a symphony of sublime strokes, led by the triumvirate of Dilshan Madushka, Dimuth Karunaratne and Mendis. The opening partnership of 96 runs between Madushka and Karunaratne unfolded with the finesse of a master craftsman, weaving together a tapestry of defiance against the relentless pursuit of the new ball by the opposition bowlers.
Partnerships and departures
Despite the lamentable departure of Madushka via a fateful runout, the imperious Karunaratne found solace in the unyielding companionship of Mendis, forging a formidable partnership of 114 runs for the second wicket. Karunaratne’s innings concluded at 86 runs off 129 balls, featuring eight boundaries and a solitary six, before falling to debutant fast bowler Mahmud.
Sri Lanka ends Day 1 on a strong point
Mendis joined experienced Angelo Mathews at the crease, and together they forged a valuable partnership of 53 runs for the third wicket. Unfortunately, Mendis’ innings came to an end when he was dismissed by Shakib for 93 runs, narrowly missing out on reaching the coveted three-figure mark. Shortly after, Mathews departed after contributing 23 runs to the team’s total. Nevertheless, Dinesh Chandimal (34) and skipper Dhananjaya de Silva (15) remained unbeaten as Sri Lanka concluded first day of the match with a strong total of 314/4.