Ever since Angelo Mathews was ‘Timed out’ by Bangladesh skipper Shakib Al Hasan in the 2023 ODI World Cup, the two teams have not failed to taunt and remind each other of the moment. In the high-intensity clash at Delhi last year, Mathews, who walked out with a faulty helmet, looked to change his headgear before taking guard. The delay in facing his first ball allowed Shakib to appeal for the ‘Timed out’ dismissal, making Mathews the first player in the history of international cricket to be dismissed in such a manner.

During Bangladesh’s innings later in the game, Mathews took Shakib’s wicket and pointed at his wrist soon after, presumably signalling a watch and referring to his ‘Timed out’ dismissal earlier. The two sides did not shake hands after the match and the two sides have not shied away from bringing the incident up whenever they face each other.

In the first T20I between the two sides last week, Shoriful Islam dismissed Avishka Fernando with a thick edge to the wicketkeeper Litton Das. While celebrating, Shoriful instantly pointed at his watch to bring back memories.

Sri Lanka won that game by three runs before the hosts bounced back in the second clash, winning by eight wickets. In the third game today, Sri Lanka were led by Nuwan Thushara, who picked up a hat-trick with three unplayable balls, as they defeated the hosts by 28 runs.

CHAMPIONS 🏆! #BANvSL pic.twitter.com/t37fOQFnzF

— Sri Lanka Cricket 🇱🇰 (@OfficialSLC) March 9, 2024

During the presentation ceremony, as Sri Lanka were posing with the trophy and the ‘Winners’ banner, the imaginary watches were out again. This time, all 17 members of the squad were involved. This gesture promises a heated ODI series from March 13, with the Bangladesh side expected to come up with their response to Sri Lanka’s antics.