Shafique is dismissed by Siraj, caught in front of the stumps, a straightforward LBW decision! One has to wonder, was this a tactical move by Siraj all along? Earlier in the over, he had already troubled Shafique with a shorter delivery, prompting a discussion with Rohit.
Perhaps they signaled for another short ball, but instead, Siraj surprised everyone by delivering a cross-seamed, back-of-a-length ball that skidded low. Shafique, on the back foot and attempting to flick, found himself right in line with the off stump, and the ball crashed into the middle stump.
Rohit approached Siraj, seemingly saying, “I told you so.” The batsmen didn’t even consider a review, as they knew it was a clear-cut decision. Conversation between Rohit and Siraj: They’re instructing a fielder to shift his position, specifically the fine leg fielder.
What a fantastic beginning for Jadeja! Rohit’s tactical substitution, replacing Kuldeep after just one over with Jadeja, is proving to be a masterstroke. Jadeja nearly claimed a wicket and appears to pose a genuine threat. The momentum is shifting, and the crowd is firmly behind India, putting pressure on Pakistan.
Shafique and Imam provided a solid foundation, but Rohit’s clever adjustments, like luring Shafique into the LBW trap and repositioning the deep point fielder to tempt Imam into a drive, paid off as Imam edged the next ball while attempting to drive. India is making a strong comeback in this match.
