A dramatic sequence unfolded late in Australia’s innings as substitute fielder Rinku Singh found himself at the centre of a catch controversy during the third T20I against India on Sunday. Arshdeep Singh had just been brought back into the attack for his third over when he nearly picked up his third wicket in the very first ball of the 18th over.Marcus Stoinis lofted a low full toss from outside off towards long-on, where Rinku ran in and dived forward to take what looked like a splendid low catch. He celebrated instantly, throwing the ball upward as his teammates joined in. However, replays meant that his joy was short-lived, with a tinge of controversy. The third umpire, after several looks, ruled that the ball had bounced just before Rinku got his hands under it. “Not out is the call,” confirmed the umpire, with the crowd erupting in cheer. The replay showed that before Rinku caught that and threw it up, it just bounced in front of his hands. The decision proved costly in the short term. Stoinis made full use of it after being let off the hook, striking three boundaries in the remaining five deliveries of the over to bring up his half-century. His aggressive 64 off 39 balls, including eight fours and two sixes, powered Australia to a total of 186 for 6 in their 20 overs. But the story came full circle in the 20th over. Arshdeep returned again, and this time Rinku made no mistake. Stoinis attempted another lofted shot off a low full toss, only to find Rinku perfectly positioned at long-on.
Poll
Do you think Rinku Singh’s catch was valid?
Arshdeep, acknowledging the effort, told the Australian all-rounder “well played” and offered a fist bump before walking back to his mark. Australia finished on 186 for 6, with Matthew Short unbeaten on 26 off 15 balls and Xavier Bartlett on 3.
