India's Axar Patel Falls Unfortunate Run-out in Second T20I
Axar Patel's resolute 27 off 21 balls, featuring 4 fours, was marred by an unfortunate run-out as India's hopes of a competitive total were dealt a significant blow in the second T20I against South Africa in Gqeberha on November 10.
The unfortunate wicket came in the 12th over when Hardik Pandya hit the ball back, and Patel, trying to return to the crease, was unable to execute the run. The ball, deflected slightly by South African bowler Nqabayomzi Peter's fingertips, redirected towards the stumps at the non-striker's end, catching Patel outside his crease. This dismissal marked India's fifth wicket, going for 70 runs in 11.5 overs, highlighting the obstacles the team faced against the South African bowling attack led by Marco Jansen.
Patel's dismissal stifled India's momentum as they struggled to score freely, ultimately managing 124/6 in 20 overs. Hardik Pandya played an unbeaten 39 off 45 deliveries, while Tilak Varma scored 20 runs, as the team struggled to break the shackles against the South African bowlers.
The incident demonstrated the vulnerability the Indian batters faced against the South African bowling, particularly Marco Jansen's attack, which continued to plague India throughout the match. As the series progresses, India will look to regroup and improve their batting to boost their chances of leveling the series.