Bangladesh batter Tawhid Hridoy expressed frustration over a crucial umpiring decision during their T20 World Cup Group D match against South Africa. Hridoy suggested that the outcome might have favoured Bangladesh had Mahmudullah not been incorrectly given out in the 17th over of their chase at the Nassau Cricket County Stadium in New York.
In the pivotal moment, South Africa's Ottneil Baartman delivered a swinging fuller-length ball that struck Mahmudullah on the pads. Despite appearing to miss the stumps, umpire Sam Nogajski raised his finger, deeming Mahmudullah out LBW. Upon Mahmudullah's review request, replays confirmed the ball's trajectory would have missed the stumps, but Bangladesh lost four extra runs due to the initial decision.
Under cricket laws, once the umpire signals out, the ball is considered "dead," even if the decision is overturned through DRS. Bangladesh eventually lost the match by precisely four runs, as South Africa defended a total of 113.
Hridoy lamented the impact of the umpiring decision on the match's outcome, emphasising the significance of those additional runs. He also acknowledged the challenge posed by low-scoring matches and slow outfields in the venue, noting the importance of showing intent from a batting perspective.
Reflecting on his dismissal in the 18th over, Hridoy acknowledged the missed opportunity to finish the match from a favourable position. Despite the challenges, he expressed confidence in Bangladesh's ability to adapt and overcome in their upcoming matches.
Bangladesh, currently with two points from two matches, will face the Netherlands in their next encounter.