In the last game of the 5-match ODI series against New Zealand, India recovered from its early jolts in Wellington thanks to the efforts of Ambati Rayudu and Vijay Shankar. The two put together a 98-run partnership during the middle overs to steady the Indian innings.
But a terrible mix-up between the two batsmen in the 32nd over led to Shankar getting run-out.
Colin Munro’s back of a length delivery was punched wide of the short midwicket fielder by Shankar. He didn’t call Rayudu for a run as the batsman was waiting the ball to go past Jimmy Neesham. But Rayudu looked in some sort of a hurry and ran through to leave his partner hapless. Shankar had to oblige and therefore tried to complete a run. However, it was too late by then.
Neesham’s throw was wayward but Munro was at the right place to collect the ball and managed a direct hit to send Shankar packing. The all-rounder scored 45 off 64 deliveries with four fours and looked really good in his first batting opportunity during a One Day International.
https://vimeo.com/315047335
Here is how fans on Twitter reacted to Shankar’s disastrous run-out:
https://twitter.com/imsgshinde/status/1091911782787047425
Got to feel for Vijay Shankar there. He is trying to be a regular in the side, managed to play steady knock after the team collapsed but had to sacrifice his wicket to save Rayudu. #NZvsIND
— Omkar Mankame (@Oam_16) February 3, 2019
With Rayudu, there is always that danger of a run out. Unlucky Vijay. 😭 He was playing better shots than Rayudu. #NZvIND
— Aishu 💙 (@imaishu_) February 3, 2019
Rayudu ran out Shankar there. Youngster deserved better. #NZvIND
— KASHISH (@crickashish217) February 3, 2019
https://twitter.com/Mishalraj10/status/1091935709512908800