Picture Credit: Disney+ Hotstar
The 2nd T20I between India and New Zealand kicked off on Friday in Ranchi and the first half hour produced some enthralling action. With so much dew on the field at JSCA International Stadium Complex, the stage was set for a high-scoring contest. Martin Guptill did not take too long to exploit the conditions as he smashed Bhuvneshwar Kumar for 14 runs in his first over.
After playing cautiously against Deepak Chahar and Axar Patel, the Kiwi opener resumed his assault against Bhuvi when the experienced pacer returned to bowl the 4th over of the innings as Guptill welcomed him with another huge six. But just like any fast bowler, Bhuvneshwar Kumar replied with a scorching bouncer which left the Kiwi absolutely stunned.
The 35-year-old, who overtook Virat Kohli as the leading run-scorer in T20Is during his knock, was definitely not expecting a bouncer from the bowler. However, he tried to pull the ball despite not finding himself in a great position.
Unfortunately for him, the wet ball skidded onto the wicket and came so quickly that it fully deceived him. The ball went on to hit his helmet in a scary incident as the physio ran towards the field to check on him. As per the protocol, the concussion test was performed and he was deemed fit to continue.
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Guptill did not look too perturbed with the impact as he smoked another huge six in the next over being bowled by Deepak Chahar. However, he succumbed to a similar bouncer on the next delivery as his mistimed pull went straight into the hands of Rishabh Pant, ending his 15-ball 31-run knock in Ranchi.