NEW DELHI: South African star batter David Miller’s dismissal by Hardik Pandya sparked memories of the 2024 T20 World Cup final in a thrilling moment of deja vu during the 3rd T20I between India and South Africa on Wednesday.
In this latest encounter, Miller attempted a fierce pull shot off a short delivery from Pandya in the 16th over, looking to drive South Africa closer to the target of 220.
Axar Patel, stationed at the boundary, jumped high to pull off a spectacular catch, cutting short Miller’s knock at a crucial juncture.
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This dramatic catch bore a striking resemblance to the iconic scene during the T20 World Cup final earlier this year, where Pandya, under immense pressure, successfully defended 16 runs in the final over, clinching the trophy for India.
In that tense moment, Miller had also aimed to clear the boundary with a big hit, but Suryakumar Yadav executed a brilliant piece of fielding on the ropes to dismiss him.
Surya had skillfully positioned himself by stepping outside the boundary before leaping back in to complete the catch, leaving South Africa just shy of their target and sealing the World Cup for India by seven runs.
Wednesday’s T20I saw Pandya’s bowling and fielding unit rise to the occasion once again.
Axar’s athleticism and alertness made up for an earlier dropped catch, and his effort not only dismissed Miller but also curbed South Africa’s scoring momentum.
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Pandya’s impact as a game-changer shone through yet again as India won by a narrow margin of 11 runs, successfully defending their 219-run total.
With this win, India strengthened their momentum on tour, having taken a 2-1 lead in the four-match series.
Suryakumar’s Men in Blue will take on the Proteas for the fourth and final T20I on Friday at The Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg.