AUSTRALIA BATSMAN Peter Handscomb displayed some excellent close fielding as he pulled off two stunning catches during the second innings of the Pune Test.
Fielded in the slip, Handscomb reminded the viewers of former India cricketer Eknath Solkar, who was renowned for effortlessly plucking balls standing at forward short-leg. The Aussie youngster inspired his side with a fantastic diving catch to dismiss Ajinkya Rahane off O’Keefe’s delivery.
And, while fielding at short leg, Handscomb pulled off another brilliant reflex catch to remove Ravichandran Ashwin. The India offie blocked the ball onto his own foot, sending it up in the air and giving Handscomb a small chance.
It is not the first time we are witnessing impressive grabs in this Test. During the first day, we saw India wicketkeeper fly like a bird to dismiss Steve O’Keefe. The Bengal-lad’s effort was compared to the catches in the past by legendary wicketkeeper Rodney Marsh and legendary South African fielder Jonty Rhodes.
However, the wicketkeeper batsman’s father, Prasanta Saha told oneindia that he wasn’t surprised to see his son’s amazing catch.
"I am not overwhelmed by Wriddhiman's catch. I have seen him taking several catches, being captured in this way since his childhood."