Arshdeep Singh pulled off a brilliant piece of fielding in the first T20I between India and New Zealand, grabbing the attention of cricket fans.
The Indian fast bowler showcased his football-like skills to run out Bevon Jacobs in a remarkable moment on the field.
The New Zealand batter was scoring quickly, but Arshdeep’s sharp reflexes and presence of mind brought his innings to an end. The incident occurred in the 18th over of New Zealand’s innings, with Arshdeep bowling to Glenn Phillips. He delivered a superb yorker, which Phillips attempted to keep out with his feet. The ball deflected off him and stayed close by.
Meanwhile, Jacobs attempted to steal a quick single. Arshdeep rushed towards the ball and, instead of picking it up with his hand, cleverly kicked it towards the stumps. The ball hit the wickets directly. Jacobs dived desperately to make his ground, but his bat failed to reach the crease in time. Following a review by the third umpire, he was adjudged run out.
Jacobs was batting well at the time of his dismissal. He scored 31 runs off just 16 balls, including three sixes, providing valuable momentum to New Zealand’s innings. His wicket proved crucial for India, as the hosts managed to halt the batter’s aggressive approach.
New Zealand posted an imposing total of 225/4 in their 20 overs after being put in to bat. Glenn Phillips led the charge with an unbeaten 82, while Finn Allen contributed 45 runs. Jacobs also played an aggressive cameo to keep the scoreboard moving, but Arshdeep’s extraordinary piece of fielding helped India secure a crucial breakthrough.
Sanju Samson starred with a blistering 67 off just 33 deliveries as India edged past New Zealand by four wickets in the opening T20I at Christchurch on Thursday to go 1-0 up in the five-match series.
Set a challenging target of 225, India reached 230/6 in 19.4 overs to seal a thrilling victory. Samson smashed eight boundaries and four sixes during his explosive knock, while Shreyas Iyer contributed 42 runs.
Axar Patel added a valuable 24, and Naman Dhir remained unbeaten on 42 to help India complete the successful chase.