Run out to a police propaganda message

Rawalpindi Police has launched a unique traffic safety program based on a controversial run-out incident reported during the second One Day International cricket match between Bangladesh and Pakistan in Mirpur. International media reported yesterday that an advertisement has been created to educate the public about road rules, using a photograph depicting the moment Pakistani player Salman Agha was run out.

The specialty here is providing a safety message to the public through an incident on the sports field.

This incident was reported in the 39th over of Pakistan's innings. Mohammad Rizwan's drive shot off the fourth ball bowled by Bangladesh spinner Mahedi Hasan was stopped by Mahedi with his foot. At that moment, Salman Agha, who was at the non-striker's end, came forward from the bowler's line (popping crease) and was ready to pick up the ball, but Mahedi Hasan reacted quickly, picked up the ball, and broke the stumps. At the bowler's request, the on-field umpire referred the decision to the TV umpire, who ruled it a legitimate run-out as the batsman was out of his ground.

Commenting on this, the Rawalpindi Traffic Police in Pakistan pointed out that the team lost a wicket due to the player's negligence in failing to fulfill his primary duty of protecting himself. The advertisement released by the police, along with a photograph showing Salman Agha standing outside the crease attempting to pick up the ball, states: "Whether on the road or on the field, safety begins with personal responsibility. Trust yourself, stay alert. Make wise decisions."

After being run out, Salman behaved with great anger, throwing his helmet and gloves as he left the field, but he later understood his mistake. Speaking at the post-match press conference, he stated that while he always prefers to follow the rules, the spirit of the game is above that, and under any circumstances, if the bowler thinks what he did was correct, there is no problem with it. Nevertheless, the Pakistan team managed to secure a massive victory by 128 runs in this match.

Watch the video related to this incident ›