Table of Contents
India‘s remarkable two-wicket triumph over Australia in the first T20I of the Australia Tour of India 2023, held at Visakhapatnam on Thursday, left cricket enthusiasts in awe. The standout performance came from Indian batter Rinku Singh, whose brief yet impactful knock of 22 runs in 14 balls added the finishing touch to the game, capturing the attention of cricket fans and experts alike.
After the match, Rinku candidly shared insights into his innings, shedding light on the pivotal game-finishing advice he received from former India skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni, widely regarded as one of the greatest finishers in cricket history.
Rinku shares MS Dhoni’s crucial advise
Rinku shared his approach during the crucial phase of the game, explaining that when there were around 40 runs needed in four overs, he aimed to take the game to the last over by playing freely. The 26-year-old revealed his old consultation with Dhoni when the latter sought advice on approaching such situations, to which the southpaw advised him to stay calm. The Aligarh-born cricketer endeavoured to implement this advice in his game, emphasizing the importance of composure in pressure situations.
“In four overs we needed some 40-odd runs, my mindset was to do what I wanted to and take the game to the last over. I talked to Mahi bhai (Dhoni) and asked him what he thinks in the last over he said that if you stay calm it will be good for you so I try to do that,” Rinku said in a video posted by BCCI.
Also READ: Dinesh Karthik pens a heartfelt note on Rinku Singh’s emotional journey and relationship with mentor Abishek Nayar – IND vs AUS 2023
India’s batting domination
In a thrilling match, Australia set a formidable target of 209, courtesy of a spectacular performance by Josh Inglis, who hammered a magnificent century, amassing 110 runs. In comparison, Steve Smith‘s elegant contribution of 52 runs further bolstered the total.
However, the Indian batters, led by skipper Suryakumar Yadav and Ishan Kishan, unleashed havoc upon the Australian bowling attack during the chase. Yadav displayed exceptional skill and determination, scoring a brilliant 80, while Kishan’s aggressive innings of 58 runs added substantial firepower. In the final moments, Rinku’s short but explosive knock ensured victory for the Men in Blue, capping off a sensational run chase on the last ball of the innings.
