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In a match that will be etched in the memory of cricket fans for a long time, Indian batting sensation Smriti Mandhana showcased her exceptional fielding skills with a breathtaking direct hit to run out Bryony Smith for a golden duck in The Hundred Women 2024.
The perfect storm
The stage was set at the Rose Bowl Stadium in Southampton, where Southern Brave were taking on Trent Rockets. With the onus on the bowlers to make early inroads, Lauren Cheatle delivered a low full toss to Smith, who attempted a quick single. Little did she know, a storm was brewing at mid-on.
Smriti Mandhana’s moment of magic
Positioned at mid-on, Mandhana reacted with lightning-fast reflexes. The moment the ball was struck, she sprinted towards it, collected it with precision, and without a moment’s hesitation, unleashed a bullet-like throw at the stumps. The direct hit was so accurate that Smith was caught napping, miles short of the crease.
The dismissal was a shock to the system for Trent Rockets, and the Southern Brave players erupted in joy, celebrating Mandhana’s incredible feat. The crowd was left in awe as they witnessed a piece of fielding brilliance that is rarely seen on cricket fields.
Here is the video:
DIRECT HIT 🚨
Southern Brave pick up a first ball wicket with this runout from Smriti Mandhana 🙌#TheHundred | #RoadToTheEliminator pic.twitter.com/qZf7p1ekOo
— The Hundred (@thehundred) August 10, 2024
Also WATCH: Lauren Filer cleans up Meg Lanning with a beauty in The Hundred Women 2024
Mandhana’s magic goes in vain
While Mandhana is primarily known for her elegant batting, this exceptional fielding effort highlighted her all-round abilities. It was a timely reminder that she is a complete cricketer, capable of match-winning contributions with both bat and ball.
Speaking about the game, Trent Rockets Women posted 155/7 in 100 balls, thanks to captain Nat Sciver-Brunt’s brilliant half-century. She scored unbeaten 60 to help her side post a competitive total. In response, the Brave could only manage to reach 131/6, losing the contest by 24 runs. Mandhana impressed with the bat as she scored a quickfire 42. All-rounder Chloe Tryon also chipped in with unbeaten 47 but the rest of batters failed to build partnerships.
