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In a thrilling Super Smash 2023-2024 encounter on Monday (January 22), the Wellington Firebirds secured a hard-fought victory against the Canterbury Kings, winning by 18 runs. Amidst this gripping clash, the spotlight turned to a sensational moment orchestrated by Canterbury pacer Logan van Beek, who pulled off a remarkable return catch to dismiss Tom Latham.
Tom Latham and Henry Nicholls provide a strong start
Having been asked to bat first, Canterbury’s innings progressed smoothly, reaching 145/1 in 17 overs. However, van Beek’s exceptional performance in the 18th overturned the tide to some extent. The experienced 33-year-old displayed his bowling prowess by removing Henry Nicholls with the first ball of the over. He went on to concede only seven runs from the following four deliveries.
Logan van Beek’s sensational catch of Latham alters the game’s course
On the decisive final ball of that over, Van Beek delivered a skillfully placed delivery outside the off-stump, tempting Latham to stretch wide and attempt a forceful launch over the bowler’s head. Latham, in an aggressive bid to maneuver the ball, aimed to drag it from a wide angle and unleash it with power. Nevertheless, the execution did not go as planned.
Latham’s forceful strike sent the ball hurtling straight back at the Van Beek, who stationed in his follow-through position, displayed exceptional reflexes and fielding prowess. Despite the ferocity of Latham’s shot, Van Beek, with remarkable agility, managed to snatch the ball out of the air with just one hand. The catch, executed as a blinder, showcased Van Beek’s extraordinary athleticism and cricketing acumen.
Here’s the video:
YOU BEAUTY! That's some catch from Logan van Beek 😱#SuperSmashOnFanCode pic.twitter.com/icva7V6XGr
— FanCode (@FanCode) January 22, 2024
Also READ: New Zealand’s head coach provides significant update on Kane Williamson for South Africa Tests
Respectable total by Wellington Firebirds
Despite Van Beek’s brilliance, Canterbury managed to score 26 runs off the final two overs, concluding their innings on a formidable total of 178/4 in 20 overs. Latham emerged as the top scorer for Canterbury, contributing 60 runs off 49 deliveries and forming an 84-run partnership with Nicholls for the second wicket.
Firebirds secure victory over Canterbury Kings
In their pursuit of the target, Canterbury made a solid start with a 39 runs stand. Nonetheless, they lost wickets at regular intervals. Michael Bracewell‘s aggressive innings, marked by three massive sixes, propelled them to 97/3 after 11 overs. Unfortunately, once Bracewell was dismissed, Canterbury’s chase derailed, and they could only manage to reach 160/9 in their allotted 20 overs.
