The Cricket Association of Nepal has apologised after its women’s team successfully appealed for a timed-out dismissal against Bhutan during a Women’s Premier Cup T20 match in Malaysia, Newswire reported.
Bhutan had lost its opening wicket on the first ball of the chase to Nepal’s total of 113. Incoming batter Ritshi Choden appeared unprepared and was seen rushing to the crease with her helmet in hand. She failed to take guard within the time limit, prompting Nepal’s players to appeal. The umpires upheld the appeal, leaving Bhutan two wickets down after a single ball.
Although the dismissal was within the Laws of Cricket, it drew criticism for falling short of the game’s spirit. The Cricket Association of Nepal said in a post-match statement that the incident did not reflect the values it strives to uphold.
“While the dismissal was effected within the Laws of Cricket, we recognise that the spirit of the game extends beyond the written laws and must remain central to our conduct at all times,” the board said. The statement extended apologies to Bhutan Cricket, the player concerned and all stakeholders, and reaffirmed a commitment to sportsmanship, mutual respect and fair play.
Nepal went on to win the match, with Bhutan finishing on 62 for eight in its 20 overs.
The timed-out law has been a flashpoint in international cricket since the November 2023 ODI World Cup dismissal of Bangladesh’s Angelo Mathews by Sri Lanka, one of the most disputed applications of the rule in the men’s game. Sri Lanka women have themselves been active on the regional T20 circuit, with a 25-run win over Bangladesh at Sylhet ahead of the squad’s New Zealand A tour.
