A significant seismic event temporarily brought international cricket to a standstill in Dhaka on Thursday, as an earthquake measuring 5.2 on the Richter scale shook the capital during the second Test match between Bangladesh and Ireland.
Match Interrupted by Natural Phenomenon
The ground began to tremble at approximately 11:45 AM local time on November 21, 2024, creating an unexpected interruption in the day's play. The earthquake occurred during the first session of the second day's play at the iconic Shere Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur.
Players from both teams immediately sensed the unusual movement beneath their feet. Bangladesh batter Shahadat Hossain and Irish bowler Mark Adair, who were actively engaged in the game when the tremors began, paused mid-action as the stadium experienced noticeable shaking.
Immediate Safety Response
Match officials acted promptly, temporarily suspending play as a precautionary measure. The suspension lasted for approximately five minutes while authorities assessed the situation and ensured the safety of everyone present at the venue.
Spectators in the stands also felt the tremors, creating a moment of tension and uncertainty. However, the situation remained under control throughout the brief interruption, with no reports of panic or injuries among players, officials, or spectators.
Quick Resumption of Play
After confirming that the stadium structure remained secure and the immediate danger had passed, umpires gave the signal to resume play. The match continued without further disruption, with players quickly regaining their focus and returning to competitive cricket.
This unusual interruption added an unexpected chapter to the ongoing two-match Test series between the two nations. The first Test of the series had concluded earlier, making this second encounter particularly crucial for both teams seeking to establish dominance in the longer format of the game.
Earthquakes of this magnitude are relatively uncommon in the Dhaka region, though Bangladesh does experience occasional seismic activity due to its geographical location. The prompt response from match officials demonstrated well-established safety protocols for dealing with unexpected natural events during international sporting competitions.
The incident highlighted how nature can unexpectedly influence professional sports, even in highly organized international events. Both teams showed professionalism in handling the situation, quickly adapting to the unusual circumstances before continuing with the match.
