Sophie Devine showcased her fielding brilliance with a spectacular backward running catch to dismiss Anushka Sanjeewani during a crucial moment of the game in the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 match between New Zealand and Sri Lanka on Saturday (October 12).
Sophie Devine’s outstanding backward running catch
In the 16th over, Leigh Kasperek delivered a tempting flighted ball outside off-stump, luring Sanjeewani to charge down the pitch in an attempt to clear mid-off. However, the batter mistimed her shot, sending the ball high into the air.
Devine, positioned at mid-off, had a tough task ahead as the ball soared over her shoulder. With precision and composure, she turned and sprinted backward, tracking the ball with her eyes fixed firmly on it. Despite the awkward angle and the pressure of the moment, Devine reached out and completed a stunning catch, just as the ball began to descend. Her athleticism and quick reflexes made the dismissal look effortless, but it was a testament to her experience and skill as one of the game’s top all-rounders.
This catch not only removed Sanjeewani for 5 off 7 balls but also gave Kasperek her second wicket, pushing Sri Lanka deeper into trouble. Devine’s brilliance in the field lifted New Zealand’s energy, keeping the pressure on their opponents and contributing to a strong team performance.
Here’s the video:
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Sri Lanka struggle to 115/5 after Chamari Athapaththu steady 35
Sri Lanka Women, choosing to bat first in the match against New Zealand, could only manage 115/5 in 20 overs. Chamari Athapaththu played a patient knock of 35 off 41 balls, but her inability to accelerate stalled Sri Lanka’s innings. After her dismissal in the 14th over, the middle order faltered under pressure. Harshitha Samarawickrama contributed 18 before falling to Kasperek. Despite late efforts from Nilakshika Silva (14*) and Ama Kanchana (10*), Sri Lanka struggled to push the scoring rate. Extras accounted for 15 runs, boosting their modest total.
Amelia Kerr and Leigh Kasperek shine for New Zealand
New Zealand’s bowlers were disciplined, led by Amelia Kerr, who picked up 2 wickets for just 13 runs in her four overs. Kerr’s clever variations troubled the batters, taking crucial wickets, including Athapaththu. Kasperek also impressed with 2/27, dismissing Samarawickrama and Sanjeewani. Devine’s athletic backward-running catch added to New Zealand’s sharp fielding display. Eden Carson contributed with 1/19, while the pace duo of Rosemary Mair and Lea Tahuhu applied pressure with economical spells. The well-rounded bowling effort left New Zealand with a manageable target of 116.
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This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.