The law of cricket says that there is no obstacle to run out. Asif Sheikh still did not do that. Nepal wicketkeeper came to the discussion after that. The 21-year-old Nepali cricketer once again highlighted the ‘spirit of cricket’ or the spirit of cricket.
Ireland, United Arab Emirates and Nepal are playing hosts in the four-nation tournament in Oman. That’s where their match against Ireland was yesterday. The heart touching incident was seen there on Valentine’s Day.
Ireland, batting first, were playing in the 19th over of the innings. Mark Adair could not timing the ball of Kamal Singh Eri properly, still wanted to take the single. Although hesitant at first, he responded to the call with Andy McBrain, who was on the non-strike end.
However, the danger arose when McBrain fell to his feet with the bowler while trying to take a single. Kamal then threw from short midwicket to wicketkeeper Asif. As long as Asif is holding it, it’s time to get McBrain out! McBrien also gave up trying to reach the crease.
However, Asif turned his hand once but did not break the stump in the end. The commentator then said, such a scene is like a thorn in the flesh! He mentioned that it was like getting the ‘Spirit of Cricket’ award in 2022.
McBrain didn’t seem to understand at first what had really happened. However, after a while, he turned to Asif and thanked him. After that, Nepal captain Sandeep Lamichane was seen shaking hands with McBrain.
Asif’s generosity has already received a good response on Twitter. The video was also posted by the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), the cricket’s governing body. Every year the organization organizes a Colin Cowdre Spirit of Cricket Lecture.
Asif could be nominated for the ICC’s 2022 Spirit of Cricket Award, too. The ICC gives an award in this category every year. Last time it was won by Daryl Mitchell of New Zealand. The Kiwi all-rounder refused to take a single after a clash with England spinner Adil Rashid, also in the World Cup semifinals. New Zealand, however, won the match.
However, Asifra lost the match against Ireland. McBrien, who made 3 off 3 balls during the incident, has finally made 11 off 8 balls. Ireland scored 126 runs in 20 overs. Asif started the innings for Nepal. He was out for 23 runs from 22 balls with the catch of the McBrien ball! After playing 20 overs, Nepal managed to score 111 runs losing 9 wickets, losing by 16 runs.
Of course, what Asif has done on this day, is definitely much bigger than victory or defeat!