Despite losing the toss, the Mumbai Indians capitalized on an unexpected advantage, kickstarting a remarkable innings led by Rohit Sharma and Ishan Kishan, propelling them to 80/0 within just seven overs.
However, the Delhi Capitals staged a fierce comeback, swiftly dismissing Suryakumar Yadav, Kishan, and Tilak Varma in quick succession. Yet, Mumbai’s skipper Hardik Pandya and Tim David rose to the occasion, forming a resilient 60-run partnership, steering their team to 181/5 by the 18th over, despite Pandya’s departure shortly thereafter.
As Romario Shepherd and David stood firm, the Mumbai dugout witnessed a dramatic turn of events in the final over of their innings. After leaking 19 runs in the penultimate over, the Capitals aimed for redemption, entrusting Anrich Nortje with the final over. However, Rishabh Pant couldn’t foresee the onslaught that followed.
Facing the Proteas’ speedster, Shepherd launched three consecutive sixes off the first three deliveries of the over, one of which traveled an astounding 96 meters, igniting jubilant celebrations from Suryakumar Yadav and Pandya in the pavilion.
Shepherd continued his audacious display, smashing Nortje for a boundary and a last-ball six, accumulating an incredible 39 runs off just 10 balls. Once again, the Mumbai Indians dugout was left in awe, with Pandya’s astonishment evident as he placed his palm on his head, witnessing the explosive final over.
𝗕𝗹𝗼𝗰𝗸𝗯𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗶𝘀𝗵 🔥
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 7, 2024
On Display: The Romario Shepherd show at the Wankhede 💪
Watch the match LIVE on @JioCinema and @starsportsindia 💻📱#TATAIPL | #MIvDC pic.twitter.com/H63bfwm51J
The Twitterverse erupted with admiration for Shepherd’s batting prowess, sparking lively discussions across social media platforms about the sensational display.