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Auckland’s Eden Park stadium witnessed a roller-coaster of emotions during the first T20I of the five-match series between New Zealand and Pakistan that unfolded on January 12, 2024. The match witnessed Kiwi batters going all guns and blazing and making a statement with the bat after losing the toss and being put to bat first by visitors.
However, what truly stole the limelight was Pakistan pacer Aamer Jamal‘s fiery delivery to clean up Finn Allen, which initially had the crowd on its feet, only for the celebration to be abruptly halted by the umpire’s no-ball call. This ensuing drama added an unexpected twist to an already electrifying match.
Early jolt for New Zealand
New Zealand’s innings got off to a shaky start when star opener Devon Conway departed for a golden duck in the first over. However, Allen stepped up to the plate, showcasing an aggressive approach that had the Pakistani bowlers on the back foot.
Aamer Jamal’s ripper turned sour
In the third over, Jamal bowled a delivery that eventually dismissed Allen. The ball by young Pakistan seamer was a beautiful nipbacker, pitched up around the off-stump which snuck back in and breached Allen’s defense. As Jamal erupted in an exuberant celebration, the umpire intervened, signalling a no-ball due to an overstep.
The moment went viral on the internet, with viewers expressing a mix of amusement and sympathy for the bowler.
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Viral video sparks debate
The dramatic scenes of Aamer Jamal’s premature celebration created quite a buzz on social media. While some found humour in the unexpected turn of events, others empathized with the bowler’s misfortune.
Here’s the video:
Amir Jamal Celebrates Getting Finn Alenn !!!!
Umpires Checks It No-Ball !!!!!!
Finn Allen Looking Dangerous 🥵#NZvPAK #PAKvsNZ pic.twitter.com/EmO0AMSlw7— Haider🤴 (@pclover4ever) January 12, 2024
Abbas Afridi comes to rescue
Although Allen later fell victim to Abbas Afridi in the following over, the drama did not deter New Zealand’s aggressive batting approach. Kane Williamson and Daryl Mitchell took charge, with Williamson smashing an impressive 57 runs. Mitchell played the role of the aggressor, smashing 61 runs off just 27 deliveries, powering the Blackcaps to a massive total of 226/8 in the allotted 20 overs.