Virat Kohli was saved by technology after suffering a first ball scare in IND vs AUS 5th Test in Sydney. The Indian batter was caught out in the slips off his very first delivery, thanks to a stunning catch taken by Steve Smith. However, replays of the catch suggested that the Aussie had allowed the ball to brush the ground for a split second, forcing the third umpire to adjudge it as not out.
Smith thinks Virat Kohli was out
During the lunch break on Day 1, Smith was asked if he believes he managed to get his hand underneath the ball to take the catch. The former Australian skipper responded saying that he was 100% sure and that there was no denying. However, he stated that the third umpire had made the decision and that he was ready to move on.
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In the 7.5 over, Scott Boland bowled a sharp delivery to Kohli, whose bat edged the ball towards second slip. Steve Smith, stationed at that crucial position made an astounding dive to his right, getting his hand under the ball. The catch seemed miraculous at first glance; as Smith stretched fully to grasp it. However, the ball slipped out of his fingers, popping up towards gully where Marnus Labuschagne was waiting to complete the catch.
This close call granted Virat Kohli a lifeline, giving him a chance to regain his footing in the match. Indian cricket fans must be hoping that Kohli makes the most out of this lifeline to capitalise and play big innings against Australia. The batter has only scored one century in the series so far, the hundred came in the Perth Test.
