Running towards his right from long-on, Aiden Markram executed a full-length dive to catch the ball inches above from the ground.
Follow Us
During the 13th match of the ongoing ICC T20 World Cup 2021 between Australia and South Africa in Abu Dhabi, South Africa batter Aiden Markram continued on his knack of contributing for his team. Markram, who had top-scored for South Africa with his 40 (36) comprising of three fours and a six after Australia captain Aaron Finch won the toss and chose to bowl, provided his team with an equally game-changing offering on the field. In a low-scoring clash, Steve Smith had made a composed 35 and looked set to guide Australia to victory. However, Markram had other ideas, giving South Africa a chance of completing a remarkable victory with a stunning catch in the deep. Markram pulled off a stunner near the boundary ropes to dismiss Australia’s set batsmen Smith for 35.
Flying Markram!!!
Whatta Catch!!!@AidenMarkram#SAvsAUS#T20WorldCup#LiveTheGame pic.twitter.com/C37EPswwRs— Arnavicious!!! (@TweetsByArnav) October 23, 2021
It all happened on the penultimate delivery of the 15th over when Smith’s attempt of pulling Anrich Nortje for the second time in a row resulted in his dismissal. Having hit the ball a lot straighter on this particular occasion, Smith presented a difficult but possible catching opportunity for Markram. Running towards his right from long-on, Markram put on display a full-length dive to catch the ball inches above from the ground. Considering the supreme quality of the catch, it is obvious as to why Markram is receiving appreciation for the same.
Markram’s catch brought an end to a 42-run partnership for the fourth wicket between Smith (35) and Glenn Maxwell (18). With South Africa spinner Tabraiz Shamsi sending back Maxwell to the pavilion in the following over, the Proteas have made a stellar comeback into the match whilst defending just 119 runs.
Former South African cricketer Herschelle Gibbs, who himself was an amazing fielder during his playing career, took to Twitter showering appreciation for the 27 year old batter.
Gibbs tweeted “Markram with a blinder “.
Markram with a blinder ??
— Herschelle Gibbs (@hershybru) October 23, 2021
On commentary, former New Zealand bowler Danny Morrison was left in disbelief, exclaiming: “Are you joking!
“Thought it was a four, but Markram has got a cape on here. That is a catch and a half.”
His partner on commentary Dale Steyn added: “What a catch, this is an incredible catch!
Despite their poor showing with the bat, South Africa were excellent in the field, coming close to completing a shock win. Anrich Nortje dismissed Australia captain Aaron Finch early for a duck and South Africa continued to pick up regular wickets to keep themselves in the game. However, Marcus Stoinis and Matthew Wade were able to get their side over the line, with Australia winning the match by five wickets.
Rishabh Pant's explosive last-over blitz ignites IPL 2024 amid T20 World Cup comeback talks
