During the third and final T20I between India and Sri Lanka in Pune, Indian captain Virat Kohli hit an elegant lofted drive off Sri Lankan all-rounder Angelo Mathews.
It happened on the second delivery of the 17th over when King Kohli put on display an extension of his defense to hit a stunning six down the ground. Having used minimal power for the shot, it was all about timing as far as the 31-year-old batsman was concerned.
“There you go. A huge and wonderful shot downtown for a maximum. India has found a very good number six. Brilliant! Understand the game very well. Picks the gap gets two, next ball in the slot and it disappears”, said the commentators on air.
That’s what you missed if you weren’t watching #INDvSL on Hotstar! 😉#KingKohli #TheBattlesBeforeTheWar pic.twitter.com/JtvJB5JvWY
— Hotstar Canada (@hotstarcanada) January 10, 2020
Shikhar Dhawan and KL Rahul score quick fifties
India, who were asked to bat first by Sri Lankan skipper Lasith Malinga got off to a flying start, thanks to the brilliant opening partnership between Shikhar Dhawan and KL Rahul, who added 97 runs. Both went on to complete their respective half-centuries.
However, after their dismissals, quick wickets seemed to derail the Indian innings. And after captain Kohli got run out for a 17-ball 26, it appeared like the Men in Blue would not be able to finish their innings well.
Manish Pandey, who was promoted up the order, had other ideas as he cut loose and took the Lankan bowlers to the cleaners. He remained unbeaten on an 18-ball 31 at a strike rate of 172.22 as India finished at 201/6 in their stipulated 20 overs.
