During the second T20I of the three-match series against India, South African batter Matthew Breetzke faced an unfortunate dismissal that altered the course of the game. The virtual series decider, held at St George’s Park in Gqeberha, saw India posting a total of 180 runs, later revised to 152 due to the DLS method.
South Africa started their innings strongly, with Reeza Hendricks and Matthew Breetzke mounting pressure on the Indian bowlers. The opening duo accumulated an impressive 41-run partnership within three overs. However, a crucial mixup led to Matthew Breetzke’s dismissal during the fifth ball of the third over.
Reeza Hendricks played a delivery from Ravindra Jadeja towards deep mid-wicket, taking a single. Breetzke attempted a risky second run, despite no call from Hendricks.
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Tilak Varma, stationed at deep mid-wicket, delivered an accurate flat throw to Jadeja at the non-striker’s end. The bowler quickly relayed the ball to keeper Jitesh Sharma, who dislodged the bails, sending Breetzke back to the pavilion.
Here is the video of the incident:
What happened there?! 🤯
Whatever happened, #TeamIndia won’t be complaining after being handed the 1st wicket with the run-out 😅
Will 🇮🇳 capitalise?
Tune-in to the 2nd #SAvIND T20I
LIVE NOW | Star Sports Network#Cricket pic.twitter.com/0EzN6aAUMC— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) December 12, 2023
Despite his dismissal for 16 runs off 7 balls, Breetzke showcased excellent form, maintaining a strike rate of over 220, including 1 four and 1 six. It appeared that nerves may have influenced his decision, resulting in a costly run-out.
India, after being put in to bat, faced an initial setback with both openers, Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal, departing for ducks. However, Tilak Varma (29) and Suryakumar Yadav (56) orchestrated a recovery, adding 49 runs for the third wicket.
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Following Varma’s dismissal, Rinku Singh partnered with Suryakumar. While the captain departed after a brisk fifty, Rinku notched up his maiden half-century, finishing unbeaten with 68 runs. Rain interrupted the innings, and the target was revised to 152 from 15 overs.
