The incident occurred in the 115th over of India’s epic rearguard. Vihari, who was six not out having just crossed 100 balls faced in his innings. His slow scoring rate was at least partly down to his having sustained a hamstring injury running a quick single early in his knock.

However, despite runs being largely irrelevant and Vihari having barely looked like taking a run, Wade still fancied his chances of catching the batsman short after he blocked won down into the pitch.

Fielding in close, Wade lobbed the ball towards the stumps, hitting Vihari. The Indian batsman stayed as unruffled as he had been throughout his innings.

https://twitter.com/coachsirrules/status/1348513263156281344

Many saw Wade’s actions as attempts at intimidation, and the 33-year-old came under fire on social media, especially after a later throw from slip hit Vihari again.

https://twitter.com/sobermonk/status/1348509197726478336

Wade hit Vihari trying to run-out or trying to hit him , what is going on

— kohli (@KingKolly2) January 11, 2021

https://twitter.com/shaikfazal11/status/1348511090829713410

Vihari has been hit twice on the body while Wade throwing it, Vihari hasn't said single word but just smiled.

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) January 11, 2021