[Watch] Umpie KN Ananthapadmanabhan Apologised After Blocking A Powerful Shot From Jitesh Sharma

In a riveting clash at the Raipur International Stadium, India showcased their class, securing a decisive 20-run victory over Australia in the fourth game of the five-match T20 series. This triumph not only solidified their lead in the series with a commanding 3-1 score but also demonstrated the team’s resilience and skill on the pitch.

Matthew Wade, the Australian skipper, won the toss and opted to field first, aiming to put pressure on the Indian batting lineup. Little did he anticipate the masterclass awaiting his team. India set a formidable total of 174/9 in their allotted 20 overs.

The highlight of India’s innings was the stellar performance by Rinku Singh, who showcased his class with a commanding 46 runs off 29 balls. His calculated yet aggressive approach laid the foundation for India’s imposing total, leaving the Australian bowlers grappling for answers.

Adding to the spectacle was Jitesh Sharma, the explosive wicketkeeper-batsman, who played a blistering inning of 35 runs off just 19 balls. His quickfire knocks added crucial runs to India’s tally and put Australia on the back foot early in the game.

[Watch] Umpie KN Ananthapadmanabhan Apologised After Blocking A Powerful Shot From Jitesh Sharma

However, amidst the thrill of the match, an unforeseen incident occurred in the 15th over of the Indian innings. Chris Green, in an attempt to stifle Jitesh Sharma’s aggressive approach, bowled a high full toss. Sharma, eager to capitalize, tried to smack the delivery but mistimed the shot, sending the ball straight back to the bowler.

In an unexpected turn of events, the ball hit KN Ananthapadmanabhan, the on-field official, prompting a momentary pause in the game. Ananthapadmanabhan, despite the impact, reassured the players and apologised to Jitesh Sharma for the inadvertent obstruction that may have cost him some runs.

As the action unfolded, India’s bowlers stepped up to the plate, defending their challenging total with precision. Noteworthy was the captain’s strategic use of bowlers, introducing variations in pace and employing spin to exploit the pitch conditions. The relentless pressure created by the Indian bowlers left the Australian batsmen struggling to find their rhythm. With this impressive win in Raipur, India clinched the T20 series with a 3-1 lead.

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