In a remarkable start to the Delhi Premier League (DPL) T20 2024 on Saturday (August 17), Purani Delhi-6‘s all-rounder Kunwar Bhiduri pulled off a remarkable catch to dismiss opener Manjeet in their season opener against South Delhi Superstarz. The match was held at the Arun Jaitley International Stadium in Delhi.

Kunwar Bhiduri’s spectacular catch in the DPL 2024

Bhiduri’s catch to see-off Manjeet was nothing short of spectacular, showcasing an exceptional fielding skill and presence of mind. The moment unfolded in the third over of the first innings when Manjeet attempted to play an aggressive shot off the bowling of Divij Mehra. Positioned at short third man, Bhiduri had to react swiftly as the ball was slashed hard in his direction.

The challenge with this catch was not just the speed of the ball but also the angle at which it was traveling. As the ball soared above Bhiduri, he had to backtrack quickly, keeping his eyes locked on the ball while adjusting his body position.

Bhiduri displayed remarkable agility and hand-eye coordination as he timed his leap perfectly, extending his right hand at full stretch. Despite the awkward angle and the pressure of the moment, he managed to get a firm grip on the ball, holding onto it securely as he tumbled to the ground. This catch was crucial for its difficulty level and timing, as it gave South Delhi their first breakthrough in the match, setting the tone for their bowling performance.

Here’s the video:

A stunner of a catch 👏#JioCinemaSports #DelhiPremierLeagueT20 pic.twitter.com/lgDlwGA3C3

— JioCinema (@JioCinema) August 17, 2024

Also READ: Delhi Premier League (DPL) T20 2024 Schedule: Date, Match Time, Broadcast & Live Streaming details

Purani Delhi-6’s strong start

After Manjeet’s dismissal for 13 off eight balls, which included two boundaries, Rishabh Pant walked out to join Arpit Rana in the middle. The duo steadied the innings, with Rana leading the charge. Rana scored the first fifty of the tournament, accumulating 59 runs off 41 balls, including eight fours and two sixes. Together, they put up an 80-run partnership for the second wicket before Pant was dismissed for 35.

Lalit Yadav and Vansh Bedi provided a strong finish to the innings, adding an 89-run stand that propelled Purani Delhi to a formidable total of 197/3. Bedi’s aggressive 47 off 24 balls, featuring four fours and four sixes, and Yadav’s 34 off 21 balls helped set a daunting target of 198 for South Delhi.

South Delhi Superstarz’s spirited chase

In reply, South Delhi got off to a solid start with an 87-run opening partnership between Priyansh Arya and Sarthak Ray. Ray’s 41-run contribution laid a strong foundation, and after his dismissal, Arya continued to anchor the innings, scoring 57 runs.

Ayush Badoni, the Superstarz captain, joined Arya and further bolstered the chase with a quickfire 57 off 29 balls. Their 65-run partnership from 37 balls put South Delhi in a commanding position. However, the match took a dramatic turn after Badoni’s dismissal, as Purani Delhi-struck back, taking six wickets in the next five overs.

Vision Panchal’s late heroics

With the match hanging in the balance, Vision Panchal stepped up in the 19th over, scoring 13 crucial runs with a four and a six, ensuring that South Delhi crossed the finish line with five balls to spare. The thrilling victory was sealed by Panchal’s composure under pressure, helping his team start their campaign on a high note. For Purani Delhi, Shivam Sharma was the standout bowler, taking two wickets. Lalit, Aayush Singh, Ankit Bhadana and Prince Yadav each contributed with a wicket.

Also READ: Delhi Premier League 2024: Complete squads of all six teams for the inaugural edition

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