The bizarre run out dismissal of Sri Lankan cricketer Angelo Mathews during Sri Lanka’s World Cup 2023 match against Bangladesh has caught the attention of Odisha State Transport Authority (STA).
Mathews became the first player in international cricket history to be ruled out “timed out” after arriving at the crease on time but wasting a few crucial seconds when he realized he was carrying a broken helmet. Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan appealed successfully for Mathews’ wicket even before he faced a delivery.
While the decision divided opinions, the Odisha STA has used this unusual mode of dismissal to stress the importance of road safety. Taking to social media, the transport authority drew an analogy between Mathews’ dismissal and road safety.
In their post on X (formerly Twitter), the Odisha STA wrote: “Road Safety lesson from World Cup 2023, Don’t throw away your wicket, play consistent long innings. Always wear ISI certified helmet & tie the strap. Also encourage pillion rider to do so. On Field or Off Field #SafetyFirst always!”
#RoadSafety lesson from #CWC23
— State Transport Authority, Odisha (@STAOdisha) November 6, 2023
Don't throw away your wicket, play a consistent long innings.
Always wear ISI certified helmet 🪖 & tie the strap. Also encourage pillion rider to do so.
On Field or Off Field #SafetyFirst always !#AngeloMatthews#CricketWorldCup#WorldCup2023 pic.twitter.com/r2h26t8GSn
They shared pictures of Mathews departing the field after being ruled out to emphasize their message.
Mathews’ dismissal proved crucial as Sri Lanka slipped to 135/5. However, a century by Charith Asalanka helped them post a competitive 279. Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan then led his team to a three-wicket win, knocking Sri Lanka out of the semi-final race.
The Odisha STA’s innovative use of Mathews’ strange dismissal highlights how real-life incidents can spread awareness about road safety measures like wearing certified helmets.