(Getty Images)
After India’s impressive semi-final win over England at Providence Stadium, Guyana, former India wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik was invited to the Team India dressing room to present the ‘Fielder of the Match’ award. The recipient of the award was current Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant, recognized for his exceptional performance on the field. Pant showcased his prowess with a crucial catch and a stumping during the match. Despite a modest contribution with the bat, his wicketkeeping skills were exemplary and flawless.
Rishabh Pant receives ‘Fielder of the Match’ award from Dinesh Karthik
The custom of awarding the ‘Fielder of the Match’ medal persisted in India’s locker room following fielding coach T Dilip’s praise of the team’s outstanding on-field display. Dilip then called upon Dinesh Karthik to present the medal.
Karthik commended the team for their remarkable victory and reflected on the T20 World Cup semi-final loss to England in the past. He recalled his involvement in the squad at that time when India suffered a heavy defeat and were eliminated by England.
“You guys have done phenomenally well. So congratulations! Two years ago, in the same game against the same opponent, I remember how we were in the dressing room on a cool night in Adelaide. Things didn’t go our way but from there to where we have reached today, it has been great to watch. Some very good decisions along the way in picking the team itself, it started there. But it’s been outstanding to see how well you have played,” Karthik said.
Karthik also praised Rohit Sharma, the team’s captain, and Rahul Dravid, the head coach, whose tenure is set to conclude following this tournament.
“Just the couple of mentions, Rohit Sharma, who led the team really well and also for Rahul bhai. In a couple of games, it could be his last game as the coach. You’ve had a great journey. You’ll leave the team in a better place as well for the rest to take over,” the former wicketkeeper-batter mentioned.
Next, he presented the medal to Rishabh Pant and commended him for his impressive return to the Indian team following a serious accident.
“As I said, there are many stories in this sport. I don’t think six months ago, we expected him to be in this team. Not many would have expected him to play this sport this early. But to come out here, play as well as he can, started at the IPL. We are all very happy for him. He has made millions happy by just being there on the field. Well done Rishabh Pant!” Karthik said.
India’s exceptional performance continued as they secured a spot in the ICC tournament final for the third time in a year by defeating England in the semi-final by 68 runs. The batsmen posted a competitive total on a challenging pitch, with Rohit Sharma leading the charge with a splendid half-century, well-supported by Suryakumar Yadav. Following the innings, the spin duo of Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav took three wickets each to maintain control.
India’s next challenge will be against South Africa in the T20 World Cup final at Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados. This final appearance marks India’s third in a year, following their participation in the WTC finals and the ODI World Cup final in 2023.
