BBL 2021-22 : Melbourne Renegades' Jake Fraser-McGurk takes jaw-dropping one-handed catch near boundary ropes

While these are still early days in the Big Bash League (BBL) 2021-22, fans have already witnessed some exciting action over the 22 yards. Match 3 of the tournament saw Melbourne Renegades taking on Adelaide Strikers Docklands Stadium in Melbourne. Momentum swung in a roller coaster in the game as the thrilling contest went right down the wire. However, the Renegades eventually walked away with a two-run win.

Besides a tight contest between the bat and the ball, the game also witnessed a sensational effort on the field. Jake Fraser-McGurk took a one-handed stunning catch at the deep mid-wicket boundary to dismiss Adelaide Strikers’ Jake Weatherald for 18 in the first innings of the contest. It was an unbelievable effort from the 19-year-old as six runs were written all over the shot.

The incident took place in the seventh over of Strikers’ innings. Left-arm wrist spinner Zahir Khan was operating with the ball and he delivered a toss-up ball. With the ball being in the slot, Weatherald’s eyes lit up and the southpaw went for a slog sweep. While the ball looked all set to clear the fence, Fraser-McGurk made a full-stretched jump and grabbed the ball with his right hand.

Jake Fraser-McGurk timed his jump to perfection.

Notably, the fielder was just inside the boundary rope. Hence, the catch required immense precision and presence of mind. As Fraser-McGurk showcased both, Jake Weatherald had to walk back to the dug-out. The video of the catch was posted on BBL’s Twitter page with a caption that read: “Jake Fraser-McGurk plucks an INSANE grab!! #BBL11.”

Notably, the margin of Renegades’ victory was just two runs. Hence, things might have been different had the Australian teen didn’t showcase his brilliance. Meanwhile, Zahir Khan bagged two more wickets in the game as the Strikers were restricted to 151/8 in their allotted 20 overs. The Afghanistan international also bagged the Player-of-the-Match award for his match-winning show.

“Today was my day. The captain and Nabi supported me in the ground, very happy with my performance. I am enjoying (being a Renegade). The coaching staff and managing staff are very good, they are always supporting the young players,” said Zahir after the game.