In the ongoing IPL clash between Rajasthan Royals and Punjab Kings, tensions flared as a miscommunication between Sanju Samson and Avesh Khan led to a heated verbal exchange after a crucial dropped catch at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur, Chandigarh.
The incident occurred during the 19th over of the Punjab Kings innings, with Avesh Khan delivering to Ashutosh Sharma. Avesh’s delivery prompted Ashutosh to attempt a powerful shot towards mid-wicket, resulting in a miscue. Both Avesh and Sanju charged for the catch, but the lack of communication caused them to collide, dropping the catch in the process. This mishap escalated into a confrontation as they appeared to assign blame to each other for the missed opportunity.
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The ramifications of the dropped catch were significant, as Ashutosh Sharma capitalized on the second chance, unleashing two consecutive sixes off Avesh’s subsequent deliveries. These boundary hits tarnished Avesh Khan’s bowling figures, marring what had been a commendable performance earlier in the innings.
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Initially, Avesh Khan had showcased an impressive bowling display, securing two wickets and conceding only 16 runs in his initial three overs. However, the turn of events in the 19th over saw his figures deteriorate to 2 for 34 by the innings’ conclusion.
Despite the dropped catch and subsequent onslaught from Ashutosh Sharma, Punjab Kings managed to reach a competitive total of 147 for 8 within their allotted 20 overs. The innings had witnessed a rocky start for Punjab Kings, with wickets falling at regular intervals, leaving them struggling at 70 for 5 in the 13th over.
WATCH – Kuldeep Sen and Sanju Samson Collide In Crucial Catch Moment
However, a resilient partnership between Jitesh Sharma and Liam Livingstone revived their innings, steering them past the 100-run mark. Ashutosh’s explosive cameo towards the end further bolstered Punjab Kings’ total, with the right-hander contributing a vital 31 runs off 16 deliveries, including one four and three sixes.
