Kusal Mendis Refused To Shake Hands With Bangladeshi Players

Kusal Mendis Refused To Shake Hands With Bangladeshi Players

In a recent cricket match between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, the Bangladeshi team emerged victorious by a narrow margin of three wickets, chasing down a target of 280 with 53 balls to spare. However, what caught the attention of the cricketing world was the controversial decision of Sri Lankan captain Kusal Mendis to refuse to shake hands with the Bangladeshi players after the match. Mendis cited his reasons for this gesture, primarily revolving around a disagreement with the timing of Angelo Mathews’ arrival to the crease.

Kusal Mendis was visibly upset with the umpire’s decision to call for a time-out when Angelo Mathews was due to bat. According to Mendis, Mathews had reached the crease within 1 minute and 55 seconds, just five seconds short of the two-minute mark required for a new batsman to appear. However, Mathews’ helmet had been damaged, rendering him unable to take guard properly. In this situation, Mendis argued that the umpire should have declared Mathews not out, preventing the need for a time-out.

Mendis’ frustration with this incident led him to make the controversial decision of refusing to shake hands with the Bangladeshi players, stating that they did not show respect for the spirit of cricket. He went on to express his belief that there was no point in joining hands with a team that lacked the understanding of the core values of the game.

To evaluate whether Kusal Mendis‘ decision was right or wrong, it’s essential to consider both sides of the argument.

On one hand, Mendis’ frustration is understandable. The rules of cricket are designed to maintain the integrity of the game, and adherence to these rules is crucial. In this case, he believes that the umpire’s decision to call for a time-out was questionable, and it impacted the outcome of the match. His passion for the sport and the desire for fairness are evident in his actions.

On the other hand, the refusal to shake hands with the opposition is a breach of sportsmanship. Cricket, like many other sports, emphasizes the importance of mutual respect and fair play. Shaking hands after a match is a traditional display of sportsmanship, acknowledging the skills and efforts of the opposing team. By not extending his hand, Mendis missed an opportunity to set an example of good sportsmanship.

In hindsight, it’s crucial to recognize that emotions can run high in the heat of competition. While Mendis’ reaction might be seen as a reflection of his commitment to the game, it’s also essential to remember that cricket is more than just a set of rules and regulations. It’s a sport that values integrity, respect, and fair play.

In conclusion, Kusal Mendis’ decision not to shake hands with the Bangladeshi players after the match is a matter of debate. While he had valid concerns about the timing of Angelo Mathews’ arrival at the crease, his refusal to engage in a post-match handshake raises questions about sportsmanship. Cricket, like all sports, is about more than just the rules; it’s about the spirit of the game. Perhaps this incident can serve as a reminder to all cricketers about the importance of upholding the values that make cricket a beloved and respected sport worldwide.

Virat Kohli Century