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On Wednesday (April 24), Noor Ahmad showcased his cricketing acumen early in the Indian Premier League (IPL) encounter between Delhi Capitals (DC) and Gujarat Titans (GT) at the esteemed Arun Jaitley Stadium, making a significant impact even before unleashing his bowling prowess. The Afghanistan spin maestro exhibited his exceptional fielding skills by seizing two pivotal catches in the fourth over of Delhi’s innings, rapidly dismissing both the openers in a dazzling display.
Double impact: Noor Ahmad’s twin catches
In an awe-inspiring feat of athleticism, Noor initially executed a routine catch at deep square leg, effectively removing the dangerous Jake Fraser-McGurk from the crease. Within moments, he further dazzled the spectators with an extraordinary display of agility and reflexes, lunging forward at an acute angle to claim a stunning catch and send Prithvi Shaw packing.
Acrobatic agility: Noor’s stunning catch
Shaw’s attempted pull shot off the delivery from Sandeep Warrier initially seemed destined to fall short, casting a shadow of doubt over Noor’s ability to make the catch. However, displaying lightning-fast reflexes and unparalleled determination, the spinner swiftly closed the gap and executed a breathtaking dive to clutch the ball just inches above the turf.
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The umpire’s dilemma: Noor’s clean catch
Amidst the ensuing uncertainty regarding the cleanliness of the catch, the on-field umpires opted to defer the decision to the third umpire. Following a meticulous examination of the catch from various vantage points, the third umpire astutely determined that Noor’s right hand had indeed secured the ball cleanly, despite the absence of indisputable evidence. With no soft signal provided by the on-field umpires, the third umpire judiciously relied solely on visual evidence to render his verdict.
Here’s the video:
Woah 🔥🔥
Noor Ahmad holds on to a sharp catch in the deep as #DC lose both their openers!
Watch the match LIVE on @JioCinema and @StarSportsIndia 💻📱#TATAIPL | #DCvGT pic.twitter.com/8zmIDwCdf2
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 24, 2024
Prior to Shaw’s departure after a brisk 11 runs off seven deliveries, Warrier already struck to dismiss Fraser-McGurk, who had exhibited early promise with a brisk 23 runs off 13 balls, including two boundaries and as many sixes. Nevertheless, his innings was abruptly curtailed as he lofted one straight into the eager clutches of Noor.