Team India all-rounder Hardik Pandya showcased exceptional fielding prowess at a crucial juncture during the Asia Cup 2025 clash against Oman at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi. The Baroda-born cricketer pulled off an outstanding balancing act on the boundary, outsmarting Oman’s Aamir Kaleem when India desperately needed a breakthrough.
The pivotal dismissal came in the 18th over of the innings. At that point, Oman required 40 runs from 15 deliveries with nine wickets in hand, making their target appear achievable. With Harshit Rana bowling, Kaleem, who was on 64 runs, attempted a fine sweep but failed to get solid contact. Positioned at fine leg, Pandya sprang into action, running and catching the ball without ever touching the rope.
The on-field umpire referred the decision upstairs and was convinced, subsequently ruling Kaleem out. This catch marked Harshit Rana’s first wicket of the innings as the right-arm pacer broke a threatening 93-run partnership between Kaleem and Hammad Mirza.
Despite the setback, Oman put up a commendable fight chasing 188, eventually falling just 21 runs short, providing the Men in Blue with a massive scare.
Earlier in the evening in Abu Dhabi, India’s Suryakumar Yadav won the toss and elected to bat first, emphasizing the need to give their batters some time at the crease. Having had little opportunity to bat in the initial matches against UAE and Pakistan, India’s top order needed time to settle.
Although Shubman Gill was dismissed cheaply in the first over, Abhishek Sharma continued his excellent form, scoring 38 runs off only 15 deliveries with aggressive stroke play. Sanju Samson, who was batting for the first time in the tournament, top-scored with a crucial 56, helping India reach a total of 188/8 in 20 overs.
Looking ahead, Team India will face Pakistan in their first Super 4 match on September 21, Sunday, at the Dubai International Stadium—a highly anticipated contest in the ongoing Asia Cup.
Stay tuned for more updates on the tournament!
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