India suffered heartbreak in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 final against Australia in Ahmedabad. Despite winning all 10 games leading up to the final, India fell short. Now, merely two days later, the resilient Indian team geared up for the T20 World Cup 2024, with their first challenge being a 5-game series against Australia in Vizag.
Under the leadership of Suryakumar Yadav, India faced Australia in the first T20 of the series. Opting to field after winning the toss, India found themselves up against a formidable Australian batting lineup. Josh Inglis, the wicketkeeper-batsman, scored a century, reaching the three-figure mark in just 47 balls.
Inglis’s aggressive innings posed a significant challenge to the Indian bowlers. Australia posted a formidable total of 208 runs. However, India showcased their mettle by successfully chasing down the target with just 1 ball to spare, scoring 209/8 in 19.5 overs – a historic chase for the Indian T20 side.
Suryakumar Yadav played a pivotal role in India’s triumph, scoring a blistering 80 runs off 42 balls, embellished with 9 fours and 4 sixes. His leadership on the field and aggressive batting set the tone for India’s victory.
As the game approached its climax, with 1 run needed off the last ball, the pressure was palpable. Rinku Singh, India’s new finisher, stepped up to the plate. With the field up and tension high, Singh smashed Sean Abbott for a six-over long-on, seemingly sealing the win. However, drama ensued as it was revealed that Abbott had bowled a front-foot no-ball.
Rinku Singh Discloses The Advice Given By MS Dhoni To Handle Pressure Situations
Rinku Singh’s ability to stay calm under pressure became the game-changer. A finisher known for his prowess in domestic cricket and the IPL, Singh’s calm demeanour was highlighted in his post-match statement. He revealed that he sought advice from the legendary MS Dhoni on handling the pressure of the final over in a chase.
Singh recalled, “I once had a word with Mahi bhai (MS Dhoni) and asked him what his thinking process is in the final over of a chase. He told me the key is to remain as calm as possible and try to hit the ball straight. I have been following his advice and try to remain calm, showing no reactions. That has helped me a lot.”
Singh’s ability to finish games in style was evident in the IPL 2024, where he smashed five sixes in the last over against the Gujarat Titans to secure a memorable victory. His innings of a lifetime against the Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL 2022 showcased his immense potential in high-pressure situations.