Rohit Sharma produced a spectacular fielding effort during the fourth ODI between India and New Zealand at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui on Friday, November 13. The veteran opener pulled off a stunning diving catch at short cover to dismiss Finn Allen off Axar Patel’s bowling in the 31st over, providing India with a crucial breakthrough.
Allen looked dangerous during his 30-ball stay, scoring 41 runs with five boundaries and two sixes. However, his aggressive innings came to an end when Axar bowled a good-length delivery outside off stump. The New Zealand batter went on the back foot and attempted to punch the ball but failed to keep it along the ground.
Positioned at short cover, Rohit quickly judged the ball’s direction, dived to his right and completed an excellent catch with both hands. Although one hand came off as he landed, the Indian veteran managed to hold on.
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Axar immediately ran towards Rohit to celebrate the important wicket, while Allen showed his frustration before walking back to the pavilion.Β Rohit Sharma’s athleticism impresses at 39
39 year old Rohit Sharma π₯π₯΅
What a great catch by Hitman diving on his right side
#RohitSharma #NZvsIND #INDvsNZ https://t.co/0F7L63ZuJW
β Wπ’π¬ππ¨π¦ Of π½πππ§ππ© (@WisdomofBharat1) November 13, 2026
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At 39, Rohit remains one of the senior-most members of the Indian team, and his athletic effort attracted considerable attention. The catch was another reminder that the former India captain continues to contribute in the field despite questions surrounding his age and long-term fitness ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup.
The dismissal also highlighted Axar’s disciplined bowling. By pitching the ball in the corridor outside off stump, the left-arm spinner forced Allen to play away from his body. The batter made contact but could not control the shot, sending the ball towards Rohit at short cover.
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India desperately needed a breakthrough after Allen’s attacking approach had put pressure on the bowling attack. His dismissal not only ended a dangerous partnership but also shifted the momentum towards the visitors.Β The combination of Axar’s accuracy and Rohit’s outstanding reflexes produced one of the standout moments of the fourth ODI.
