(Watch) Virat Kohli bowls in ODI cricket after 6 years as Hardik Pandya gets injured in India Vs Bangladesh World Cup 2023 match.
In a surprising turn of events during the World Cup 2023 match between India and Bangladesh in Pune, former Indian cricket team captain, Virat Kohli, took on the role of a bowler for the first time since 2015. This remarkable moment occurred in the 9th over of the game after Hardik Pandya sustained an ankle injury while bowling his first over.
Virat Kohli’s last bowling stint in a World Cup match was way back in 2015 when he delivered an over against Australia in Sydney, at the behest of then-captain MS Dhoni. During this recent match, Virat Kohli stepped up to bowl three deliveries at an approximate speed of 105 kmph, displaying impressive control. His short spell yielded two runs, with Tanzid Hasan and Litton Das managing a single each.
The Pune crowd erupted in applause as Virat Kohli, the former captain, took the ball from the current captain, Rohit Sharma, and walked to the bowling crease to complete Hardik Pandya’s over. It was an exciting moment for fans, as Kohli showcased his bowling skills in an ODI match for the first time in six years.
Although Virat Kohli didn’t receive another over, Shardul Thakur, an all-rounder, took over the bowling duties. Meanwhile, the Bangladesh openers, Tanzid Hasan and Litton Das, seized the opportunity and formed a solid partnership, accumulating over 50 runs for the first wicket.
The unexpected twist in the match occurred when Hardik Pandya twisted his ankle while attempting to stop a drive from Tanzid Hasan during the 9th over. Despite seeking immediate attention from the team’s physiotherapist, Hardik was unable to continue his over and had to leave the field after an extended period of ankle taping. This injury added an element of uncertainty to India’s performance in the match.
In summary, Virat Kohli’s brief return to bowling in the World Cup 2023 match against Bangladesh was a remarkable and unexpected moment that stirred excitement among cricket fans. It was a testament to his versatility and willingness to contribute in various aspects of the game, even after relinquishing the captaincy. However, India faced challenges as Hardik Pandya’s injury raised concerns about the team’s balance and performance in the match.