Bhutan's Ritshi Choden on June 4 became the first batter in women's international cricket to get timed out. In the run chase of 114, Bhutan found themselves two wickets down for just one run as Ritshi was given out without a ball was bowled. She had to hurry to the middle after Ngawang Choden lost her wicket for a golden duck to Kabita Kunwar. While the timed out dismissal is well-within the laws of cricket, Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) issued an apology to Bhutan Cricket as they felt it does not reflect the spirit of cricket.
“The incident involving the timed-out dismissal of a Bhutanese batter during today's match does not reflect the values and spirit of cricket that the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) strives to uphold," CAN said in a statement.
"On behalf of the Cricket Association of Nepal, we extend our sincere apologies for the actions of our Women's National Team in this matter.
“While the dismissal was effected within the Laws of Cricket, we recognize that the spirit of the game extends beyond the written laws and must remain central to our conduct at all times."
Big win for Nepal as Bhutan lack intent in run chase
In the Asian Cricket Council Women's Premier Cup Group D clash, Nepal beat Bhutan by 51 runs. Bhutan's Sonam and Tshering Zangmo claimed three wickets each, Anju Gurung backed a couple and Ritshi, Riya Paradhan shared one scap each. For Nepal, Sita Rana Magar top-scored with a 28-ball 37. Later, Rubina Chettry's 21-ball 24 took Nepal to 113.
In the run chase, only two Nepal batters scored in double digits. They consumed too many deliveries. Tshering faced 23 balls to score five runs. Opener Dechen remained unbeaten for 39 off 60 deliveries as Bhutan managed to post 62/8 on the board.
Timed out dismissals in men's international cricket
In men's cricket, Ghana's Godfred Bakiweyem was the first to get timed out in a T20I match against Sierra Leone in 2023. The first high profile and controversial timed out dismissal took place in ODI World Cup 2023. Sri Lanka's Angelo Mathews was given timed out despite a helmet strap malfunction.