In a thrilling match, Team India secured victory over New Zealand by four wickets in the 21st game of the 2023 ODI World Cup at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamsala on Sunday, October 22nd. This victory marks an end to their unlucky streak against the Kiwis in ICC events since 2003.
In the match against New Zealand, India bowled first after winning the toss. Despite Daryl Mitchell’s 130, the Men in Blue knocked out the Kiwis for 273 runs, with Mohammed Shami taking five wickets. Virat Kohli then hit 95 from 104 balls to help Team India reach the mark in 48 overs.
While Shami was voted Player of the Match for his outstanding bowling effort, Shreyas Iyer was selected “Fielder of the Match” for his spectacular catch that dismissed New Zealand opener Devon Conway for a duck and his overall fielding performance.
Conway was poised to flip a full delivery from Mohammed Siraj on his pads, but Shreyas came up with a game-changing ball, going low to his right from square leg.
What is the “Fielder of the Match” award for Indian players
T. Dilip, the Indian fielding coach, awards the “Fielder of the Match” medal to the finest Indian fielder of a specific match. Shreyas was the fifth “Fielder of the Match” winner. Here are the four previous winners of the tournament.
1. Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli was named “Fielder of the Match” for his impressive effort in India’s win over Australia in Chennai.
The former Indian captain showcased an exceptional display of fielding skills by executing a spectacular diving catch at slip to dismiss opener Mitchell Marsh (0) off the bowling of Jasprit Bumrah.
2. Shardul Thakur
In the encounter against Afghanistan in Delhi, all-rounder Shardul Thakur earned the award for taking a stunning catch to eliminate the dangerous Rahmanullah Gurbaz (21). Hardik Pandya’s pull was top edged by the opener.
Thakur got the catch on the deep backward square leg boundary, but flipped the ball in the air as he went over the ropes. He then steadied himself and made a good grab.
3. KL Rahul
KL Rahul, Team India’s keeper-batter, was named the third “Fielder of the Match” for his efforts against Pakistan in Ahmedabad.
In the game, Rahul was excellent behind the stumps, taking a diving catch to eliminate Imam-ul-Haq (36) after he hit a weak drive off Pandya’s bowling.
4. Ravindra Jadeja
After excelling in the game against Bangladesh in Pune, it was Ravindra Jadeja’s chance to receive the “Fielder of the Match” medal.
Mushfiqur Rahim (38) was dismissed by Jasprit Bumrah’s bowling after Jadeja dived to his right at backward point.
