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The third T20I of the three-match series between India and Afghanistan became the stage for an exhilarating cricket spectacle. The encounter, filled with nail-biting moments, concluded in a double super-over thriller that captivated millions of cricket fans around the world.
Amidst the breathtaking action, it wasn’t just the phenomenal batting performances that stole the show but also the sensational fielding displays, with Virat Kohli taking center stage.
Virat Kohli’s fielding masterclass
Although Kohli could not contribute significantly with the bat for India and departed for a golden duck, he left an indelible mark with his exceptional fielding. Kohli showcased his prowess not only in saving crucial runs with phenomenal stops and on-point throws but also with a sensational running catch that added to the cricketing spectacle.
The magic moment: Virat’s phenomenal running catch
The defining moment unfolded in the 18th over when Avesh Khan bowled a full and outside-off delivery to Najibullah Zadran, prompting him to throw his hands at the drive, resulting in a shot with height but not much distance. Kohli, positioned at long-off, embarked on a breathtaking run across half the ground, keeping his eyes fixed on the ball.
With perfect timing and precision, the former India captain executed a fine two-handed catch, leaving the Chinnaswamy crowd in splits. This pivotal wicket proved to be a turning point in the high-intensity game, underlining Kohli’s crucial role in keeping India in contention.
Here’s the video:
Virat Kohli in the field was incredible today🔥
~Covered alomost 40m to take a catch
~Saved 6
And that throw in super over#INDvsAFG #ViratKohli pic.twitter.com/e7oqYG7IWL— 𝑺𝒏𝒆𝒉𝒂🐌 (@_BornToLive_) January 17, 2024
Also WATCH: Virat Kohli’s ‘Superman’ effort to save a certain six during IND vs AFG 3rd T20I
About the match:
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, India set the stage for an imposing total of 212/4, thanks to an extraordinary unbeaten 190-run partnership between Rohit Sharma (121) and Rinku Singh (69).
Chasing a formidable target, Afghanistan showcased immense resilience with notable contributions from Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, and the standout performer, Gulbadin Naib, who played a herculean knock of 55 off 23 balls. Nevertheless, the match ended in a thrilling tie, leading to a double super-over showdown.
The double super-over thriller
The drama continued into the super-overs, with both teams matching each other’s scores in the first super-over. The match proceeded to a second super over, where India, batting first, scored 11 runs. Afghanistan needed 12 runs to win but fell short, with India securing victory in the double super-over thriller.
