As New Zealand’s second innings progressed into the 28th over, a revealing broadcast stat highlighted a curious pattern: no wickets had fallen between overs 21 and 30 in either team’s first innings. During that phase earlier in the match, Will Young and Daryl Mitchell had been resilient for New Zealand, and here they were again, crafting a steady partnership.
With the stand crossing 50 runs on a deteriorating pitch, India felt the pressure, as the partnership began to strain their hopes of keeping New Zealand’s lead in check. Sensing the need for a breakthrough, India opted for a tactical shift. Ravindra Jadeja, who had been effective from a specific end earlier alongside New Zealand’s Ajaz Patel, was brought back into the attack from that same end.
The decision immediately paid dividends. Jadeja induced a mistimed shot from Daryl Mitchell, delivering the crucial breakthrough India sought. Mitchell, attempting to hit down the ground—a favoured area of his—chose the right shot but didn’t get the connection he aimed for. Instead, the ball struck the toe of his bat, launching high into the air.
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At this point, Ravichandran Ashwin sprang into action, making a smart decision to run sideways rather than backpedal. This allowed him to keep his eyes on the ball, crucial in avoiding any misjudgment. Covering an impressive 19 meters at full speed, Ashwin extended his hands and completed a spectacular catch, leaving Mitchell visibly disappointed and India thrilled.
Runs backwards
Keeps his eyes 👀 on the ball
Completes an outstanding catch 👍Sensational stuff from R Ashwin! 👏 👏
Live ▶️ https://t.co/KNIvTEy04z#TeamIndia | #INDvNZ | @ashwinravi99 | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/ONmRJWPk8t
— BCCI (@BCCI) November 2, 2024
Commentator Ian Smith was quick to praise the move, highlighting the role of strategic captaincy: “The captaincy was excellent too. Changing Jadeja’s end first, then positioning Ashwin at mid-on to tempt Mitchell into that shot. While New Zealand missed two catches earlier in the day, India has taken a brilliant one here. This could be a pivotal moment in the match.”
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Adding to the insight, former India coach Ravi Shastri emphasized the quality of Ashwin’s catch: “Ashwin watched the ball all the way into his hands, unlike the New Zealand drops where the fielder’s eyes drifted off the ball.”
