(Source X)
In the final over of the T20 World Cup 2024 final against South Africa, Suryakumar Yadav executed a game-changing catch that remains etched in the memory of fans, hailed by some as one of the greatest in World Cup history.
The catch came under intense pressure: with 16 runs needed off the last over, David Miller faced Hardik Pandya. Pandya aimed for a wide yorker but delivered a low full toss instead. Miller, attempting a powerful shot, failed to time the ball well. Initially appearing destined to clear the boundary ropes, the ball was intercepted by Suryakumar Yadav stationed at long-off.
Yadav, realizing he was close to stepping over the boundary, made a crucial decision. He caught the ball just inside the ropes, tossed it in the air as he stepped out, re-entered the field, and completed the catch. This acrobatic effort was crucial as Miller was South Africa’s last recognized batsman, and his dismissal severely dented South Africa’s hopes of victory.
The day after their victory, Suryakumar Yadav reflected on the pivotal catch he took during the match. He explained that in the crucial moment, if Rohit Sharma had been positioned at long-on, he would have thrown the ball to him.
“Rohit bhai usually never stands at long-on but at that moment he was there. So when the ball was coming, for a second I looked at him and he looked at me. I ran and my aim was to catch the ball. Had he (Rohit) been closer, I would have thrown the ball towards him. But he was nowhere close. In those four to five seconds, whatever happened, I can’t explain,” Suryakumar said to the Indian Express.
Additionally, he disclosed that he was mindful of keeping his feet from touching the boundary rope and ensuring the catch was clean, even though the on-field umpires referred the decision to the third umpire for confirmation.
“When I pushed the ball and took the catch, I knew I hadn’t touched the rope. The only thing I was cautious about was that when I pushed the ball back inside, my feet don’t touch the rope. I knew it was a fair catch. In hindsight, anything could have happened. If the ball had gone for six, the equation would have been five balls, ten runs. We might have still won, but the margin would have been closer,” Suryakumar explained.
I have practised it (the catch) at different grounds – Suryakumar Yadav
Suryakumar added that he regularly practices such catches at various venues. He also mentioned his practice sessions with India’s fielding coach T Dilip before every match, which help him sharpen his skills and readiness for upcoming games.
“The catch I took, I have practised it at different grounds, depending on the wind. I was standing a bit wide because Hardik [Pandya] and Rohit bhai had put a field for the wide yorker, and Miller had hit straight. My mind was clear that I have to catch it come what may,” he revealed.
“A day before the game, we do a quality fielding session where for 10-12 minutes, we have more than ten high catches, flat catches, direct hits, slip catching. It’s not a one-day exercise, I practice these kinds of catches during IPL, during bilateral series. Yesterday’s catch was the reward of the hard work done over the years,” Suryakumar stated.