WATCH: Virat Kohli showcases bowling skills, comes in to finish injured Hardik Pandya’s over

In the ongoing edition of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023, the Indian cricket team led by Rohit Sharma faced Bangladesh at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune on October 19. During the 9th over of the match, Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya sustained an injury. The team physio attended to him, but even after the check-up, Hardik appeared uncomfortable. Consequently, Virat Kohli stepped in to showcase his bowling skills and bowl the remaining three deliveries of the over.

During this event, Litton Das hit a powerful shot, and Hardik Pandya attempted to stop it with his right leg. Unfortunately, he looked visibly uncomfortable and had to leave the field. Nonetheless, this unexpected turn of events provided fans with a rare opportunity to witness Virat Kohli showcasing his bowling skills.

WATCH: Virat Kohli showcases bowling skills, comes in to finish injured Hardik Pandya’s over

India need 257 to continue CWC 2023 Winning streak

India stifled Bangladesh’s batting lineup during the middle overs after a strong 93-run opening partnership. Bangladesh’s last four wickets fell quickly, with a spectacular catch by Ravindra Jadeja assisting Jasprit Bumrah in getting his first wicket. This meant that all Indian bowlers, except for Hardik Pandya and Virat Kohli (who bowled only six balls), took wickets.

The 2023 World Cup has already witnessed major upsets with Afghanistan and the Netherlands. Bangladesh, having beaten India a few times in recent ODIs, is no longer considered an underdog. Despite India’s rivalry with Bangladesh being smaller than that with Pakistan, it remains intense. Although India began on a lukewarm note in 2000 when they granted Bangladesh its Test debut, notable moments include Bangladesh’s stunning victory over India in the 2007 World Cup. While India got their revenge later, World Cup matches between the two are always fiercely contested.

India has been dominant in the 2023 World Cup, in contrast to Bangladesh’s mixed performance. Facing issues with Tamim Iqbal and captain Shakib-Al-Hasan, Bangladesh won against Afghanistan but lost to England and New Zealand. Shakib’s availability is uncertain due to a left quad injury, with a final decision pending after assessing his progress during practice sessions on Tuesday and Wednesday.

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