Cricket Association of Nepal apologises after controversial timed-out dismissal of Bhutan batter

The Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) has issued a public apology to Bhutan Cricket and fans following a controversial timed-out dismissal during the ACC Women’s Premier Cup match between Nepal and Bhutan in Malaysia.

The incident saw Bhutan batter Ritshi Choden become the first player to be timed out in women’s international cricket. The dismissal occurred during Bhutan’s chase of 114 runs when Choden failed to arrive at the crease within the stipulated time after the fall of the first wicket.

The drama unfolded on the very first ball of Bhutan’s innings. Opener Ngawang Choden was dismissed for a golden duck, bringing Choden to the crease. However, the incoming batter took more than 90 seconds to make her way out. Walking in with her helmet and gloves in hand, Choden was seen speaking to the square-leg umpire before Nepal’s players appealed for a timed-out dismissal.

The appeal was upheld by on-field umpires Sun Meng Yao and Ankita Guha. Nepal players celebrated the decision, while Choden accepted the verdict and walked back without any visible protest, leaving Bhutan reeling at 0/2 after just one delivery.

Following the match, CAN released an official statement expressing regret over the incident and acknowledging the criticism surrounding the dismissal.

“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.

“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.”

The governing body further reiterated its commitment to sportsmanship and fair play, describing the incident as one that fell short of its standards.

“As a developing cricketing nation, we place the utmost importance on sportsmanship, mutual respect, and fair play. We acknowledge that this incident has fallen short of those standards and regret any disappointment it may have caused.”

“We convey our sincere apologies to Bhutan Cricket, the player concerned, and all relevant stakeholders. CAN remains firmly committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and the spirit of cricket, both on and off the field,” the note concluded.

Despite the controversy, Nepal secured a convincing 51-run victory over Bhutan. Chasing 114, Bhutan struggled to recover from the early setbacks. The win helped Nepal move to the top of Group D with two victories from two matches, while Bhutan remained without a win after their opening two fixtures of the tournament.