SKY on Letting Rinku Singh Ball the 19th Over: India won the fourth and final T20I against Sri Lanka, whitewashing the hosts. The game, though, wasn’t easy for the T20I World Champions, as it looked like they would have to be happy with a 3-1 winning figure instead of a clean, sweeping 4-0.
Batting first, India could only make 139 runs. Chasing the target of 140, Sri Lanka were very close, having needed just 9 runs from the last 2 overs. In that tense situation, everyone expected Mohammed Siraj to bowl. But captain Suryakumar Yadav gave the ball to Rinku Singh.
It was unexpected, but the gamble paid off. Rinku took 2 wickets and brought India back to the match.
SKY On Letting Rinku Singh Ball the 19th Over
After the match, Suryakumar was asked about his decision. The newly elected captain revealed that he had observed Rinku’s bowling in the practice sessions and felt the right-handed bowler would be better suited against a left-handed batter.
“The 20th over decision was straightforward, but the 19th over was more challenging. While Siraj and a few others still had overs remaining, I felt that Rinku was better suited to bowl that particular over. I took the call by observing Rinku’s bowling in practice sessions. Ultimately, I believed this was the right call,” said Suryakumar.
“I’m well aware that the 19th over is a tricky one for the Indian team. That’s why I entrusted Rinku with this critical over – a right-hander bowling to a left-handed batter is often a tough matchup. Fortunately, Rinku rose to the occasion, skillfully executing his deliveries and making my job easier. Now, I have an additional reliable bowling option moving forward,” he added.
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