IPL 2021: Shubman Gill gets lifeline as ball touches spidercam wire during CSK vs KKR final

Luck was in Shubman Gill’s favour during the high-voltage final clash of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. The right-handed batter found it hard to score runs freely in the initial half of his knock. In pursuit of six runs, he launched a big hit but didn’t get the required elevation and Ambati Rayudu took a brilliant catch. With the delivery being legitimate, the KKR opener looked all set to take the long walk back.

However, he survived as the ball had touched the spidercam wire while coming down. It was an incredible moment in the game as CSK were raring to draw the first blood. Gill even committed the error and Raydu didn’t either make any mistake while taking the catch. However, a wire prolonged Gill’s stay at the crease and KKR fans were ecstatic.

The rare incident took place during the 10th over of Kolkata’s innings. Left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja fired a ball in the slot and Gill’s eyes lit up. While he tried to send the ball over the ropes, the connection wasn’t proper as the ball went high up in the air. Rayudu settled under the ball and took a fine catch at deep mid-wicket.

Luck in Shubman Gill’s favour

While CSK fielders began celebrations, Gill started walking back. However, the on-field umpires asked Gill to hold on as the third umpire came into the picture. The replay clearly showed that the ball had hit the wire while coming down as Gill breathed a sigh of relief. Subsequently, the ball was adjudged dead and Jadeja had to bowl it again.

The star batter then rubbed salt on CSK’s wounds, smashing Jadeja for two boundaries in that very over. He even went on to score a brilliant half-century before falling prey to Deepak Chahar. Overall, the KKR opener slammed 51 off 43 balls.

Earlier in the match, KKR won the all-important toss and invited CSK to bat at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. While Faf du Plessis slammed a magnificent 86, Moeen Ali, Robin Uthappa, and Ruturaj Gaikwad chipped in with crucial contributions. Riding on their efforts, CSK piled up 192/3 in their allotted 20 overs.