Fans and spectators were left in awe on Wednesday as Mitchell Santner took a catch of the tournament contender during the New Zealand vs Afghanistan game in the World Cup 2023. Santner executed one of the most remarkable catches of the tournament to dismiss Hashmatullah Shahidi, the captain of the Afghanistan team.
Shahidi was rushed by a short ball from Lockie Ferguson, which he attempted to pull. However, the shot was not well-timed, causing the ball to loop towards square leg. Sensing an opportunity, Santner, who was positioned at midwicket, made a swift move. He ran back, leapt forward, and extended his arm in a manner reminiscent of a telescopic gadget, managing to secure the ball in his grasp.
WATCH – Naveen-ul-Haq Uproots Tom Latham’s Stumps In ICC World Cup 2023
This spectacular catch led to the dismissal of Hashmatullah Shahidi, marking a significant moment in the match. Santner’s exceptional fielding skills were on full display during that time, demonstrating his agility, quick reflexes, and precise judgement. His catch was not only a game-changer but also a highlight of the tournament, earning him widespread acclaim.
View this post on Instagram
“That’s one of the best catches I’ve seen in a long time,” said New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson. “Mitch is a world-class fielder, and he showed why today.” “It was a sensational catch,” said Afghanistan coach Hashmatullah Shinwari. “Santner is a fantastic fielder, and he made it look easy. It was a big wicket for us, and it definitely changed the momentum of the game.”
Sometimes you just have to extend your hand. You never know when you’ll catch a blinder like Santner! 🤯🥳
📸: Hotstar pic.twitter.com/jxfgTN4qGN
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) October 18, 2023
CATCH OF THE TOURNAMENT…!!!
What a great catch 👍⭐– Take a bow, Santner 🔥#NZVsAfg #WorldCup2023 pic.twitter.com/xDPIVpZlWA
— Hemraj Dewasi (@hemrajdewasi29) October 18, 2023
The match in Chennai began with Afghanistan winning the toss and electing to bowl first. New Zealand’s innings started off shaky, with the team finding themselves in a precarious position at 110/4 after losing three quick wickets. However, a crucial partnership between Glenn Phillips and Tom Latham turned the tide for New Zealand.
WATCH – Ikram Alikhil Takes Splendid Catch to Dismiss New Zealand Opener Will Young
Phillips scored an impressive 71 runs, while Latham contributed 68 runs, helping their team reach a challenging total of 288/6 in 50 overs. Their partnership was worth 144 runs, which proved to be a game-changer. Despite some disciplined bowling from Afghanistan, New Zealand managed to maintain a steady scoring rate and put up a score of 288 in their 50 overs.
The Afghan chase has been anything but perfect as they lost their openers quickly and Shahidi with Santner’s incredible effort. The team is currently struggling at 100/4, and it remains to be seen whether they can chase down the target. Santner’s catch was a highlight of the match and the tournament so far. It was a reminder of his exceptional fielding skills and his ability to change the game with a moment of magic.
