The third T20I clash between India and Afghanistan proved to be an enthralling spectacle, concluding with a twist as the match’s outcome unfolded through two intense super-overs. India’s dominance in the T20I series was crystal clear, securing a resounding 3-0 clean sweep against Afghanistan.
The series marked the highly anticipated return of India’s captain, Rohit Sharma, and star batsman, Virat Kohli, to T20I action after a hiatus of 14 months. The climax of the third T20I was particularly gripping, as the result hinged on not one but two super-overs.
Following an exhilarating battle, Team India ultimately triumphed by a margin of 10 runs, securing the series with a 3-0 scoreline. However, the post-match discussions were fueled by controversy, centring around Rohit Sharma’s unexpected return to the crease during the second super-over.
In the initial super-over, India faced the challenge of scoring 17 runs off the last six deliveries. Rohit Sharma contributed 14 crucial runs before making his way back to the dugout. The apparent interpretation was that he had retired out, a condition that typically prohibits a player from participating in the subsequent super-over.
Nevertheless, Rohit’s return to bat in the second over left observers puzzled, raising questions about whether he was retired hurt or retired out. Amid the confusion, South African cricket legend AB de Villiers weighed in on the matter, asserting that a player should not be allowed to bat again if they were declared out in the first super-over. He suggested that potential discrepancies might have arisen due to broadcasting errors, adding an element of uncertainty to the situation.
AB De Villiers said: “Double Super Over unbelievable (smiles). You can’t bat again if you are declared out in the first super over. I think maybe they will claim that he was retired hurt due to an injury and maybe it was a scoring mistake to show him out. Rinku is a fantastic player, a match-winner, and it is good to see him become consistent as well. You need to be a consistent player who is always trying to win games for your team.”
Turning the focus to individual performances, de Villiers showered praise on Indian batter Rinku Singh. The veteran cricketer commended Singh as a match-winner, emphasizing the importance of his consistency in securing victories for the team.
Rinku Singh has indeed been making a mark as a reliable finisher for Team India, amassing 356 runs across 15 games and 11 innings in T20Is, boasting an impressive average of 89.00 and a striking strike rate of over 176, along with two half-centuries.
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