India adhered to their aggressive powerplay strategy in the series-deciding match at Wanderers against South Africa, sprinting off to a rapid start.
Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill were both unleashing an array of boundaries, hinting at a substantial partnership until Keshav Maharaj intervened, dismissing Gill in the third over. To compound the visitors’ frustration, technology later revealed that Gill’s dismissal was undeserved.
Maharaj initiated his spell with a dot ball before delivering a fullish ball from around the wicket, angling it down towards Gill’s legs. The young batsman attempted a sweeping shot, crouching down, but seemed to misjudge the flight of the ball, resulting in it thudding into his pads.
The Proteas appealed vociferously, receiving agreement from the umpire, much to Gill’s dismay, who started walking off without hesitation. Although Gill briefly paused to discuss a potential review with Yashasvi Jaiswal, the timer expired, and he opted not to challenge the decision.
However, the subsequent replay on the big screen displayed that the ball lacked enough turn and was heading wide of the stumps. While Gill had already retreated to the dressing room, cameras captured head coach Rahul Dravid expressing regret with a gesture.
— Virat Sharma (@ViratSharm39743) December 14, 2023
— Virat Sharma (@ViratSharm39743) December 14, 2023
Interestingly, in a previous T20I at Gqebehra, Gill had chosen to review an lbw decision that appeared clear-cut, prompting speculation among Twitter users about the potential influence of that prior review on the 24-year-old’s decision-making in this instance.