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In an intriguing turn of events during the second ODI between Bangladesh and New Zealand on September 23, 2023, the spotlight shone on a controversial run-out and a commendable act of sportsmanship. The incident, involving New Zealand’s Ish Sodhi, has since taken center stage in cricket discussions worldwide.
The drama unfolded in the 46th over when Bangladesh's Hasan Mahmud spotted Sodhi advancing too far from his crease at the non-striker's end. Mahmud quickly knocked the bails off and made a confident appeal. With video replays confirming Sodhi's early departure from the crease, TV umpire Marais Erasmus declared him out.
However, Bangladesh's skipper, Litton Das, in a gesture of true sportsmanship, decided to recall Sodhi. This magnanimous act not only won the hearts of many but also became a trending topic on social media, especially when Sodhi and Mahmud embraced warmly after the decision.
Sodhi's role in the game was far from over. He showcased an impressive performance, becoming the first New Zealand spinner to bag six wickets in an ODI, propelling his team to a notable 86-run victory. Apart from his bowling prowess, Sodhi contributed a valuable 35 runs off 39 balls, playing an instrumental role in New Zealand's 254-run total. This all-round display rightfully earned him the 'Player of the Match' accolade.
Post-match, Bangladesh’s opener Tamim Iqbal expressed a contrary opinion during a press conference, as quoted by Sportskeeda. He mentioned that while he respected the sportsmanship displayed, he didn’t believe there was any fault in the mode of Sodhi’s dismissal and suggested that the decision to recall him might have been reconsidered.
"I don't see anything wrong in it. The rule is there. If we get someone out, or one of us gets out in that manner, I don't think we should react the way people are reacting nowadays. I think it is a team decision," said Tamim.
"If it is a team decision that we will take wickets in this way, we will. If we don't want to take it, we will not try it. I don't think it looks good to bring back a batter after getting him out. Either we take it, or we don't do it," he added.
This event not only added drama to the game but also emphasized the essence of sportsmanship in contemporary cricket.
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