Jofra Archer and Ben Stokes combined to complete a sizzling quick bowler’s dismissal in IPL 2020, sending back Mandeep Singh with a ruthless bouncer and an equally spectacular catch in the first over of Rajasthan Royals’ game against Kings XI Punjab in Abu Dhabi.
Archer, who has been in fiery form with the new ball throughout the tournament, surprised the Kings XI opener with a vicious bouncer that followed him. Cramped for space, Mandeep helplessly fended the ball away, but it only ballooned off his glove, flying to the offside.
Stokes, stationed at gully, scampered out of his position, diving full length to catch the ball that was dying quickly on him. He caught it with both hands, inches from the ground, sparking off celebrations in the Rajasthan camp.
It was another addition to the long list of fielding brilliance in this tournament – Archer himself took a stunning catch at the boundary line earlier this week, bringing back memories of Stokes’ wonder grab in England’s opening game of the 2019 World Cup against South Africa.
Treat your eyes to some Archer-Stokes magic:
How do you play that 🔥 from Jofra Archer? pic.twitter.com/uad33cBl8J
— Wisden (@WisdenCricket) October 30, 2020
For those who can’t view the tweeted video due to restrictions, you can watch the catch on the official IPL website here.
