Tigers exit amid huge controversy
The intention of incorporating technology into modern day cricket was to minimise human error and to provide an even opportunity for teams to play the game with transparency.
But even with the benefit of technology, Bangladesh became a victim of a controversial decision as skipper Shakib Al Hasan was dismissed for nought in their crucial Super 12 fixture of the T20 World Cup yesterday.
In an unexpected turn of events in the group 2, Netherlands had beaten South Africa in the first game of the morning, turning the equation upside down as the game between Bangladesh and Pakistan emerged as a virtual quarterfinal.
But the Tigers were unable to grab the opportunity to re-write history as Shakib's LBW decision from the on-field umpire, controversially upheld on referral by third umpire Langton Rusere, followed by some erratic batting from the Tigers eventually ended their dream of achieving the unthinkable at the Adelaide Oval yesterday.
Bangladesh, after posting a small total of 127 for eight, went on to face a five-wicket defeat as Pakistan qualified for the semifinals as the second team from group 2.
The end was in stark contrast to the beginning when Bangladesh made a flying start after electing to bat, with the team motoring to 70 for one at half-way stage, thanks to a 52-run second-wicket stand between Najmul Hossain Shanto and Soumya Sarkar.
After in-form Liton Das departed for just 10, it was Shanto and Soumya who steadied the ship and laid the platform for a competitive total. The momentum shifted when Soumya's 17-ball 20 came to an end. The turning point, though, came in the very next ball when Shakib was given leg-before against Shadab Khan's by the on-field umpire.
Although Shakib immediately went for a review and replays clearly showed the ball hitting the bat before going on to touch the pads, the third umpire surprisingly retained the decision. Shakib was furious with the decision and stood his ground for a while in disbelief and things only went downhill for Bangladesh.
The Tigers kept losing wickets at regular intervals and scored only 57 runs in last 10 overs, losing seven wickets.
Shanto was unable to cash in after reaching his fifty and was dismissed on 54 off 48 balls while Afif Hossain remained unbeaten on 24 runs.
Pakistan did not face much trouble chasing the target and eventually reached home with eleven balls to spare and five wickets in hand.
Although Shakib's dismissal was not the only reason for the Tigers' defeat as their performance was not up to the mark, fans back home were left wondering why Bangladesh always fall victim to such decisions.
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