New Delhi: Ravichandran Ashwin, the talented all-rounder from India, amazed everyone with a brilliant catch that led to the dismissal of Daryl Mitchell on Day 2 of the thrilling encounter between India and New Zealand in the 3rd Test in Mumbai. As the 28th over of New Zealand's second innings approached, a fascinating stat was highlighted on the broadcast – no wickets had fallen between overs 21 and 30 in either of the innings so far. In the first innings, it was Will Young and Daryl Mitchell who managed to navigate through this particular phase, frustrating the Indian bowlers. Once again, these two right-handed batsmen were forming a solid partnership, this time crossing the 50-run mark. With the pitch conditions deteriorating and the partnership becoming a concern for India, Ashwin's stunning catch came as a much-needed breakthrough for the home team.
In the 27.5 over, Ravindra Jadeja bowled to Mitchell, who advanced down the track to loft the ball but wasn’t properly positioned, resulting in a mishit off the bottom of the bat. R Ashwin sprinted back from mid-on, extending his hands to make a spectacular catch, ensuring he held onto the ball even as he fell. Mitchell, watching the play unfold, was left stunned as he walked off after scoring 21 off 44 balls (1 four, 1 six).
WATCH VIDEO BELOW:
Runs backwards
Keeps his eyes on the ball
Completes an outstanding catch
Sensational stuff from R Ashwin!
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“The captaincy was excellent too. The change of ends for Jadeja first, and then to keep Ashwin up at mid on to entice Mitchell to go for the shot. New Zealand dropped two catches early in the day at long on, while India have taken a brilliant catch. It could be a massive moment in this match, such a crucial dismissal,” commentator Ian Smith said on air.
“Ashwin watched the ball all the way into his hands while the ones that NZ dropped earlier, the eyes weren’t on the ball,” former India coach Ravi Shastri added.