[Watch] Josh Inglis' Flying Run-out Attempt Breaks Neesham and NZ Hearts
New Zealand's Jimmy Neesham gets run-out a crucial juncture of the game (AP Photo)
In a heart-pounding World Cup 2023 match between Australia and New Zealand in Dharamsala, one moment stood out as a turning point, encapsulating the essence of cricket's thrill and agony. As the match hung in the balance, Jimmy Neesham found himself at the center of a gripping runout that ultimately tipped the scales in Australia's favor.
Watch the video here:
With the required run rate climbing, Neesham's aggressive approach had kept New Zealand's hopes alive. He had fought valiantly, amassing 58 runs from just 39 balls, breathing life into a seemingly insurmountable chase.
However, in the 49.5th over, fate took an unexpected turn. Mitchell Starc, aiming for a yorker, inadvertently bowled a high full toss, raising questions of whether it was a no-ball. Neesham, seeing an opportunity, swung at it but mistimed the shot towards deep mid-wicket. In a desperate bid to snatch an improbable second run, he called for it without hesitation.
The drama unfolded as Marnus Labuschagne, stationed at the boundary, reacted swiftly. He retrieved the ball and delivered a pinpoint throw to the keeper, Josh Inglis, who dove to whip the bails off. The decision was referred to the TV umpire, and the replays confirmed what was already apparent to Neesham - he was well short of his ground.
The giant screen displayed the dreaded "OUT" signal, and Neesham, who had given his all, put his head down and walked back to the pavilion.
In the end, Australia clinched victory by a margin of just five runs, but Neesham's heroic innings and the electrifying runout shall be etched in the memories of cricket fans for years to come, a testament to the unpredictability and sheer drama that makes cricket the captivating sport that it is.