Following a relatively steady start from openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ruturaj Gaikwad, India capitalized on formidable performances by Rinku Singh and Jitesh Sharma to set a competitive total of 174 in Raipur. The pair caused considerable trouble for the Australian bowlers, striking a combined total of five boundaries and as many maximums.
In an unusual turn of events, umpire KN Ananthapadmanabhan found himself inadvertently involved in the action. Jitesh Sharma set the tone by smashing a massive six off the first ball he faced from debutant Chris Green in the 15th over, immediately exerting pressure on the bowler.
Responding to this challenge, the off-spinner delivered a high full-toss, igniting Jitesh’s anticipation. The wicket-keeper batsman unleashed a powerful flat-bat shot straight back at the bowler with force. Green made an attempt to catch the ball, but his reflexes fell short, and unfortunately, so did the umpire’s.
Initially flinching in an attempt to evade the ball, Ananthapadmanabhan extended his hands in an effort to catch it, which unfortunately didn’t succeed. The ball struck his palm and bounced away, surprising the umpire, who thankfully escaped unharmed.
— virat Sharma (@viratSharm69964) December 1, 2023
Despite the painful blow, the umpire sported a wide grin while Green approached to express his apology, offering a consoling pat. The incident sparked amusement among Twitter users, praising Ananthapadmanabhan’s composed handling of the unexpected situation on social media.