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Sri Lanka‘s Maheesh Theekshana pulled off an exceptional catch at third man to dismiss Bangladesh‘s Shakib Al Hasan, during their Group D clash at the T20 World Cup 2024 at the Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium in Dallas.
Bangladesh’s chase
Bangladesh were cruising in their run chase after Towhid Hridoy took on Wanindu Hasaranga, accelerating the score. Despite losing Hridoy and experiencing a few tight overs, Bangladesh maintained the upper hand with the experienced Shakib Al Hasan and Mahmudullah at the crease. Positioned at 108/5 after 16 overs, Bangladesh seemed on track to chase down the target of 125.
The crucial moment
Matheesha Pathirana was brought in to bowl the 17th over. On his second delivery, Pathirana bowled a short ball aimed at Shakib, who attempted to steer it over third man with a cut shot. Positioned at third man, Theekshana anticipated the trajectory perfectly. As the ball ballooned towards him, he sprinted in and made a diving catch, getting his fingers under the ball just in time. This catch sent Shakib back to the pavilion, having scored a scratchy eight runs off 14 deliveries.
Here’s the video:
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The impact of Theekshana’s catch
Theekshana’s brilliant fielding effort injected new life into the Sri Lankan side. His catch sparked a series of wickets that put Bangladesh under significant pressure. Following Shakib’s dismissal, Sri Lanka’s bowlers, led by Nuwan Thushara, capitalized on the momentum and claimed quick wickets, causing a dramatic collapse in Bangladesh’s batting lineup.
Bangladesh’s narrow escape
Despite Sri Lanka’s valiant effort, Bangladesh managed to scrape through. Mahmudullah’s composed batting in the final overs guided Bangladesh to victory with an over and two wickets to spare. However, Sri Lanka’s spirited comeback, highlighted by Theekshana’s extraordinary catch, ensured that the match remained a thrilling contest until the end.
