NEW DELHI: In a surprising turn of events, an absolutely adamant Sarfaraz Khan managed to convince skipper Rohit Sharma to take a review for caught behind and turned out to be spot on, helping India steal the wicket of New Zealand batter Will Young during the second Test in Pune on Thursday.
The incident unfolded in the 24th over of the Kiwi innings, when Young, batting on 18, was looking to glance a floated Ravichandran Ashwin ball to the fine-leg fence.
As Young missed the ball, keeper Rishabh Pant moved really well behind the stumps and grabbed the ball neatly down the leg side. However, Pant had no clue whether the ball had hit something on its way to his gloves.
But, Sarfaraz, at short-leg, was absolutely convinced that he heard something.
As the countdown to review began, the close-in fielders and Rohit quickly gathered around and Sarfaraz was seen pleading with Rohit to send it upstairs.
Pointing fingers at himself, Sarfaraz was adamant that the on-field umpire’s not out call should be sent for a review.
As he got the backing of Virat Kohli as well, Rohit eventually reviewed it.
The Ultra-Edge then confirmed a little spike when the ball was next to the glove of Young.
Seeing things unfold on the giant screen, the Indian team rejoiced amid a huge cheer from the fans as Sarfaraz’ call turned out to be absolutely right.
With the dismissal of Young, Ashwin bagged his second wicket of the morning session. He had earlier dismissed Kiwi skipper Tom Latham for 15.
New Zealand ended the morning session at 92 for 2 in 31 overs with Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra unbeaten on 47 and 5 respectively.