In a crucial match at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Thursday, New Zealand opted to field first against Sri Lanka. With four consecutive losses in their record, the Blackcaps were in a must-win situation, aiming to showcase their best performance against the formidable Lankan Lions.
Tim Southee initiated the breakthrough by dismissing the in-form Pathum Nissanka. However, the standout moment of this wicket was Tom Latham’s redemption. On the fourth ball of the second over, Kusal Perera attempted to play Southee’s good-length delivery on the fifth stump line.
The extra bounce deceived the Sri Lankan batsman, resulting in a thick outside edge. The ball headed towards the left of Latham, and it appeared that the Kiwi wicket-keeper would secure the catch comfortably.
To everyone’s surprise, Latham dropped a straightforward chance, allowing the batter to sneak in a quick single. Southee and Latham were visibly displeased with this turn of events. Nevertheless, on the very next delivery, Southee bowled another good-length delivery in the corridor of uncertainty, and Pathum Nissanka once again edged the ball.
— bhupendar jogi (@JogiBhupen85333) November 9, 2023
This time, Latham redeemed himself, making no mistake and taking a routine catch with ease. The incident involving Latham’s initial drop caught significant attention, prompting numerous fans to share their thoughts on the matter on Twitter.