Axar Patel’s dismissal proved to be a turning point in the India’s innings. While cruising at 100 runs in the 14th over, disaster struck for the Men in Blue. Axar, who had just surpassed Virat Kohli’s individual score, was caught napping by a brilliant piece of fielding from Quinton de Kock.
With Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, and Suryakumar Yadav dismissed, Virat Kohli and Axar Patel were building a crucial partnership. Just as things were looking rosy, a misunderstanding and a moment of hesitation led to a costly run-out.
Watch Axar Patel’s unfortunate run-out!
During the 14th over, a back of length ball from Rabada angled into Kohli, who could only glove it towards the keeper. A mix-up between Axar and Kohli led to hesitation while running for the single. This hesitation proved fatal as de Kock, with the reflexes of a champion, whipped the bails off at the bowler’s end. Axar, replays showed, was slow to react and his laziness in getting back to the crease cost him his wicket.
This dismissal highlights the fine margins of the game. Had Axar put in a little more effort, dived or stretched a bit further, India would have been in a much stronger position. The quick dismissal of their in-form batter has put a dent in India’s momentum and somewhat shifted the balance of the game in South Africa’s favor.
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