Tempers flare as Bangladesh A, South Africa A players exchange blows: WATCH

Unpleasant scenes marred the second day of the second unofficial Test between South Africa A and Bangladesh A at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur on Tuesday, as an on-field altercation escalated into a rare physical confrontation.

The incident involved South African bowler Tshepo Ntuli and Bangladeshi batter Ripon Mondol, who were embroiled in a heated exchange that spiraled into a physical clash. The episode unfolded shortly after Mondol struck Ntuli for a commanding straight six, seemingly triggering verbal provocation between the two players. As tensions rose, Ntuli charged toward Mondol in a show of aggression, breaking the usual boundary of verbal sledging and resulting in an unexpected physical scuffle.

Things got out of control between Tshepo Ntuli and Ripon Mondol during the SA Emerging vs Bangladesh Emerging match today and the umpires were forced to intervene pic.twitter.com/EhYC6KVj4u

— Werner (@Werries_) May 28, 2025

Umpires were forced to step in immediately to diffuse the volatile situation and physically separate the two players. The incident shocked both teams and spectators, as physical altercations of this nature are rare in professional cricket, particularly at this level.

ESPNcricinfo reported that match referees are expected to file an official report to Cricket South Africa (CSA) and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB). Disciplinary measures are anticipated, with both players likely facing sanctions. This confrontation adds to a growing list of disciplinary issues in the ongoing series.

Notably, this is not the first flashpoint between the two sides in recent weeks. During the preceding ODI series, a separate altercation occurred involving Andile Simelane of South Africa and Jishan Alam of Bangladesh, which led to both players receiving suspensions. The recurrence of on-field tension suggests a concerning pattern of escalating aggression between the two A teams.

Despite the controversy, cricket continued as usual. Batting first, Bangladesh A posted a respectable total of 371 runs in their first innings. In response, South Africa A struggled to build momentum, finishing the day on 152 for 6 after 42.3 overs. With their top order failing to convert starts, the visitors now face a steep climb to remain competitive in the match.

This article first appeared on Mid Day