Introduction
Bangladesh batsman Mushfiqur Rahim has made history by becoming the first Test cricketer in over two decades to be dismissed for handling the ball. The last player to be given out in this manner was former England captain Michael Vaughan in 2001.
The Dismissal
Rahim's dismissal came during the first Test against New Zealand in Mirpur. After playing a defensive stroke against Kyle Jamieson, Rahim flicked the ball away. Although the ball wasn't heading towards the stumps, the Black Caps immediately appealed after witnessing a similar action from Rahim in a previous over. The on-field umpires deferred to the TV official, and Rahim was given out for 'obstructing the field' under the updated laws introduced in 2017.
The Response
Former England captain Michael Vaughan took to X (formerly Twitter) to welcome Rahim to the "very exclusive Handled ball club," showing solidarity with the Bangladeshi batter. Sir Len Hutton is the only other player to be given out for obstructing the field in Test cricket since 1951.
A Lapse in Concentration
Rahim's dismissal was part of a dramatic first day where 15 wickets fell. Bangladesh were bowled out for 172, and New Zealand managed 55 for five in response. Rahim's teammate, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, suggested that the action was instinctive and not intentional, stating that a lot of things happen in a player's mind during a game.
Conclusion
Mushfiqur Rahim's dismissal for handling the ball is a rare occurrence in Test cricket. With only seven players in history being given out in this manner prior to the 2017 rule change, Rahim's name will now be added to this exclusive list.
