In a scintillating Asian Games 2022-23 opener, Team India batter Yashasvi Jaiswal showcased his explosive prowess by launching an astounding seven sixes on his way to a sublime century. This breathtaking performance marked the commencement of India’s debut Asian Games campaign with a hard-fought 23-run victory over the resilient Nepalese side. However, there was one such incident that made heads turn during the Indian inning.
This moment of the match transpired on the fifth delivery of the eighth over during India’s innings. Karan KC was entrusted with the ball, and Yashasvi Jaiswal stood at the crease, awaiting the delivery. In a rather unconventional move, Karan chose to release the ball several yards behind the wicket, almost where the umpire usually stands. To everyone’s surprise, the delivery was a perfectly pitched length ball, soaring just above Yashasvi’s waist. However, the young batter failed to connect with it.
Here’s the clip of Nepal’s Karan KC’s uncanny bowling delivery:
Karan KC experiments as he bowls the ball from well behind the popping crease 👀
What do you make of that delivery from the 🇳🇵 lad? 😉#Cheer4India #TeamIndia #INDvNEP #Cricket #HangzhouAsianGames #AsianGames2023 #SonyLIV pic.twitter.com/A9m3qkE2Vp
— Sony LIV (@SonyLIV) October 3, 2023
India emerges victorious in what could be termed a close shave
Upon winning the toss, Team India skipper, Ruturaj Gaikwad, opted to set the stage with the bat in their Asian Games 2023 opener. The opening duo of Gaikwad and Jaiswal wasted no time and blazed their way past the fifty-run mark within the first four overs of the Powerplay. Jaiswal, in particular, was in a league of his own, notched up his half-century in just 22 deliveries. Despite his partner Gaikwad adopting a more subdued approach, Jaiswal continued to light up the scoreboard.
The India captain eventually found his rhythm, dispatching a couple of boundaries, but his innings was cut short at 25 when he attempted to clear the boundary ropes. Yashasvi, meanwhile, continued his relentless assault and eventually notched up a masterful century off just 49 balls. Late fireworks from Rinku Singh (37 not out) and Shivam Dube (25 not out) further propelled India to a commanding total of 202-4.
When Nepal stepped up to the plate, they faced the daunting task of chasing down India’s formidable target. However, they fell short, managing a total of 179-9 in reply. Avesh Khan and Ravi Bishnoi starred for India, each claiming three wickets and ensuring that India emerged victorious in their maiden Asian Games encounter.
