South Africa had ended India’s longest winning streak in the T20s, chasing their highest total in the shortest format. India brought a second-string team, then lost two important members a day before the match leading to a change in the team’s leadership. A lot many obstacles stood between India and their 13th consecutive T20I win. However, the biggest was David Miller. India had a good start with Ishan Kishan hitting lofty shots. Although wickets had fallen, the momentum stood unaffected. This IPL has brought 2 of the best finishers back to the Indian team. With both of them batting, India expected a big final over. However, Hardik Pandya denied a single to Dinesh Karthik in the penultimate over. This has drawn him some flak on the internet as Dinesh has been in good touch.
Ashish Nehra, former Indian pacer remarked-“He should have taken a single in that final over. Dinesh Karthik was at the other end, it wasn’t me.” Moreover, Dinesh Karthik scored some important quick runs for RCB this IPL. In addition, Karthik went on to be named the ‘Super Striker of the Season’. He maintained a strike rate of 183.33. Dinesh being a seasoned finisher has smashed a six on last balls in many instances.
Watch: Hardik Pandya denies Dinesh Karthik a single
With Anrich Nortje bowling the final over, Hardik managed to hit a six. However, he denied a single on the 5th delivery. On the final ball, he couldn’t clear the boundary and managed to put just 2 runs.
