In a highly anticipated encounter, India and Bangladesh are set to confront each other in the 17th match of the ODI Cricket World Cup 2023 at the iconic MCA Stadium in Pune on October 19. This matchup not only reignites the enduring rivalry between these two cricketing nations but also signifies a momentous occasion which is a clash in India’s one-day internationals after a gap of 25 years, dating back to 1998.
The Bangladesh team started well and cautiously scoring runs at over six runs and over on a pitch well suited for batting. But after Kuldeep Yadav drew the first blood in the 15th over of Bangladesh’s innings, the wicket seemed to tumble after that. There is no doubt that the Indian fielding has excelled in World Cup 2023, and wicketkeeper KL Rahul showcased this prowess with a stunning catch to dismiss Mehidy Hasan Miraz off Mohammed Siraj’s delivery. India secured a breakthrough when Kuldeep Yadav trapped Tanzid Hasan in front of the stumps, followed by a similar dismissal of Najmul Hasan Shanto by Ravindra Jadeja.
Siraj who was introduced after an initial wicketless spell, delivered a back-of-the-length ball down the leg side, tempting Miraz to play fine behind the keeper. Despite Miraz’s faint touch, Rahul displayed exceptional footwork, moving to his left and making a full-stretch dive like a goalkeeper to grab the ball with his left hand. Rahul’s brilliant catch sparked jubilant celebrations among his teammates, providing India with a momentum shift after Bangladesh’s dominance in the opening 15 overs.
Watch the video of the terrific catch from KL Rahul;
Appreciation Tweet for KL Rahul. ?
What a great catch. ?
Don't miss the running celebration from Captain Rohit Sharma in the end ? #INDvsBAN pic.twitter.com/it3mKoPUDL
— Immy|| ?? (@TotallyImro45) October 19, 2023
Virat Kohli rolls his arm over after Hardik Pandya’s injury
After winning the toss, Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto chose to bat first. The Indian seamers, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammad Siraj, had a promising start, allowing only six runs in the initial four overs of the innings. In the ninth over, the match took an unexpected turn as Hardik Pandya sustained an injury, prompting the physio to check on him.
Despite the examination, Hardik seemed uncomfortable, leading Virat Kohli to step in and bowl the remaining three deliveries. Hardik’s attempt to stop Litton Das’s powerful shot with his right leg caused visible discomfort, forcing him to exit the game. However, this unforeseen development provided fans with a rare opportunity to witness Virat Kohli in action as a bowler.
